Ingredients
1 pound pitted whole dates2/3 cup packed brown sugar2/3 cup orange juice3 teaspoons vanilla extractCRUST:1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour1-1/2 cups old-fashioned oats1 cup packed brown sugar1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon baking sodaDash salt1 cup cold butter, cubed3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnutsVanilla ice cream, optional
Preparation
In a small saucepan, combine the dates, brown sugar and orange juice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 3-4 minutes or until thickened and dates are tender, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Press half into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Carefully spread with date mixture.
Stir walnuts into remaining crumb mixture. Sprinkle over filling; press down gently. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares. Serve with ice cream if desired.
