Delectable Matrimonial Date Squares: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfection
Matrimonial date squares are a classic Canadian dessert, beloved for their chewy oat crust, sweet and sticky date filling, and satisfyingly rustic appearance. They are a perfect treat for any occasion, from afternoon tea to potlucks and holiday gatherings. This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating perfect matrimonial date squares every time. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection to baking tips and variations. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will yield a dessert that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious.
What are Matrimonial Date Squares?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s understand what makes matrimonial date squares so special. They are essentially a layered bar cookie consisting of two main components: a buttery oat crumble crust and a sweet, gooey date filling. The oat crumble serves as both the base and the topping, creating a delightful textural contrast to the soft and chewy date center. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the incredible depth of flavor that these squares possess. The oats provide a nutty and wholesome base, while the dates contribute a rich, caramel-like sweetness. The combination is simply irresistible.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe has been carefully developed to ensure consistent and delicious results. Here’s what sets it apart:
* **Perfectly Balanced Crust:** The oat crumble crust is not too dry, not too crumbly, and not too sweet. The ratio of oats, flour, butter, and sugar is precisely calibrated to create a tender yet sturdy base and topping.
* **Gooey and Flavorful Date Filling:** The date filling is cooked to the perfect consistency – thick and sticky, but not too hard or dry. The addition of lemon juice and vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness of the dates and adds a bright, complementary flavor.
* **Detailed Instructions:** The step-by-step instructions are clear, concise, and easy to follow, even for novice bakers. We’ll guide you through every stage of the process, from preparing the ingredients to baking and cooling the squares.
* **Tips and Tricks:** Throughout the recipe, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks to ensure your matrimonial date squares turn out perfectly every time. These include advice on choosing the right dates, achieving the perfect crumble texture, and preventing the squares from sticking to the pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful date squares:
For the Oat Crumble Crust:
* **Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats):** 3 cups. Rolled oats provide the signature texture and nutty flavor of the crust. Avoid using instant oats, as they will not create the desired texture.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1 ½ cups. Flour provides structure and helps bind the crumble together.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1 ½ cups, packed. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor, contributing to the overall caramel-like notes of the squares. Light or dark brown sugar can be used, depending on your preference. Dark brown sugar will result in a richer, more intense flavor.
* **Baking Soda:** 1 teaspoon. Baking soda helps the crust rise slightly and become tender.
* **Salt:** ½ teaspoon. Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
* **Cold Unsalted Butter:** 1 cup (2 sticks), cut into cubes. Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky and tender crumble. Make sure the butter is very cold before you begin.
For the Date Filling:
* **Pitted Dates:** 4 cups, chopped. Medjool dates are ideal due to their soft texture and rich flavor, but Deglet Noor dates can also be used. Be sure to remove the pits before chopping the dates.
* **Water:** 1 ½ cups. Water is used to cook the dates and create a smooth, spreadable filling.
* **Granulated Sugar:** ¾ cup. Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the filling and helps it thicken.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon. Lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, which balances the sweetness of the dates and enhances their flavor.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note to the filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch baking pan:** This is the standard size for matrimonial date squares.
* **Parchment paper:** For lining the baking pan and preventing the squares from sticking.
* **Large mixing bowl:** For preparing the oat crumble.
* **Medium saucepan:** For cooking the date filling.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Pastry blender or fork:** For cutting the butter into the flour mixture.
* **Wooden spoon or spatula:** For stirring the date filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part – baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect matrimonial date squares.
Step 1: Prepare the Oat Crumble Crust
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).** Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. **In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.** Whisk together to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. **Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients.** Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The mixture should be evenly crumbly, with no large chunks of butter remaining. If using your fingers, work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
4. **Set aside approximately 2 cups of the oat crumble mixture for the topping.** This will be sprinkled over the date filling later.
5. **Press the remaining oat crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.** Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an even, compact layer. This will serve as the base of your matrimonial date squares.
Step 2: Prepare the Date Filling
1. **In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, and granulated sugar.**
2. **Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes,** or until the dates are soft and the mixture has thickened. Stir frequently to prevent the dates from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. **Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.** The mixture should be thick and smooth. If there are any large chunks of dates remaining, you can use an immersion blender or a potato masher to smooth out the filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Squares
1. **Pour the date filling evenly over the prepared oat crumble base.** Use a spatula to spread the filling to the edges of the pan.
2. **Sprinkle the reserved 2 cups of oat crumble mixture evenly over the date filling.** Gently press the crumble into the filling to help it adhere.
3. **Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes,** or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the squares and adjust the baking time as needed.
4. **Remove the baking pan from the oven and let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting.** This is crucial for preventing the squares from falling apart. Cooling can take several hours, or even overnight.
5. **Once the squares are completely cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan.** Cut them into squares using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife clean between each cut.
Tips for Success
* **Use high-quality dates:** The quality of the dates will significantly impact the flavor of the filling. Opt for soft, moist dates for the best results. Medjool dates are a great choice, but Deglet Noor dates can also be used.
* **Don’t overbake the crust:** Overbaking the crust can result in a dry and crumbly base. Keep a close eye on the squares and remove them from the oven as soon as the topping is golden brown.
* **Let the squares cool completely before cutting:** This is perhaps the most important tip for success. Cutting the squares while they are still warm will result in a messy and crumbly dessert. Be patient and allow them to cool completely before slicing.
* **Store the squares properly:** Store the cooled squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
Variations and Additions
While the classic matrimonial date squares recipe is perfect as is, there are several ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
* **Add nuts:** Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be added to the oat crumble or the date filling for extra flavor and texture. About ½ cup of chopped nuts is a good amount.
* **Use different spices:** Experiment with different spices to enhance the flavor of the filling. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom would all be delicious additions. Start with ¼ teaspoon of your chosen spice and adjust to taste.
* **Add citrus zest:** A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest can add a bright, zesty note to the date filling.
* **Use different sweeteners:** If you want to reduce the amount of refined sugar, you can substitute some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey. Start with ¼ cup of maple syrup or honey and adjust to taste.
* **Add chocolate chips:** A sprinkle of chocolate chips over the date filling before adding the topping will create a decadent twist on the classic recipe. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or semi-sweet chocolate chips would all be delicious.
* **Make it gluten-free:** To make gluten-free matrimonial date squares, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
## Serving Suggestions
Matrimonial date squares are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream:** The cold, creamy ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, chewy squares.
* **Serve with a dollop of whipped cream:** A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance to the dessert.
* **Serve with a cup of coffee or tea:** Matrimonial date squares are the perfect accompaniment to a warm beverage.
* **Serve as part of a dessert platter:** Include matrimonial date squares as part of a dessert platter with other cookies, brownies, and bars.
## Make-Ahead Tips
Matrimonial date squares are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the oat crumble and the date filling in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the squares and bake as directed.
The baked squares can also be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the refrigerator.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate per square)
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 6-8g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 25-30g
* Protein: 2-3g
*Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion
Matrimonial date squares are a timeless classic that are sure to please everyone. With their chewy oat crust, sweet and sticky date filling, and simple ingredients, they are the perfect dessert for any occasion. This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating perfect matrimonial date squares every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these delectable squares. Enjoy!