Directions
Preheat oven to 375° degrees. Mist well a 9 x 9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Combine chopped dates and 2/3 cup of water in a small saucepan; heat for 2-4 minutes over medium heat. Cook until dates soften slightly and water is absorbed.
For the crust: Combine flour, oats and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Stir to evenly distribute oats. Add canola oil and honey. Mix well. Reserve 1/3 cup of the crust mixture and set aside for the topping. Spoon the rest of the crust mixture into the baking dish and pat it down evenly.
Pour dates onto the crust and spread. Top with reserved crust mixture and press it down. The topping will not completely cover and the date mixture will peak through in areas. Bake in 375°oven for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely and cut into 16 squares.
*Helpful Tip: Equal amounts of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour sifted together can be substituted for whole wheat pastry flour.
Source: Healthy Palate Book by Mary Lynn Farivari, RD
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