Newfoundland Date Squares are a cherished homemade dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and warmth. Featuring a rich, chewy date filling sandwiched between a buttery oat crumb base and topping, this treat has been a favorite for generations. Traditionally enjoyed with a hot cup of tea, these squares are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—no celebration required!
What Makes These Date Squares Special?
- Deliciously Chewy Filling – Made with pitted dates, butter, and vanilla for a naturally sweet, caramel-like texture.
- Crispy & Buttery Crumb Topping – A delightful combination of rolled oats, coconut, and brown sugar.
- Perfect for Any Time of the Year – Whether it’s a holiday treat or a cozy afternoon snack, these squares always satisfy.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Date Filling:
- 2 1/4 cups pitted dates, roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (adds richness to the filling)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (balances the natural sweetness of dates)
- 1 ½ tablespoons vanilla extract (enhances the flavor)
- 2 cups boiling water (softens the dates for a smooth consistency)
For the Oat Crumb Base & Topping:
- 2 cups rolled oats (gives a chewy texture)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (helps with lightness)
- 1 cup unsweetened dried coconut (adds subtle sweetness and texture)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (binds the base and topping together)
- 1 cup brown sugar (adds caramel-like sweetness)
- 1 ½ cups butter (creates a rich, crumbly texture)
👨🍳 How To Make
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cutting easier later.
Step 2: Make the Date Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates, butter, sugar, and boiling water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Allow the mixture to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the dates break down into a thick paste-like consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Oat Crumb Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, coconut, baking powder, and brown sugar. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble the Date Squares
Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even base. Spread the warm date filling evenly over the base, making sure to reach the edges. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top, pressing down gently to help it adhere.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into squares. Cooling is essential to prevent crumbling when cutting.
📌 Tips for the Best Newfoundland Date Squares
- Use Fresh Dates – Medjool dates or other soft varieties work best for a smooth filling.
- Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating for an hour makes cutting easier.
- Add Nuts for Crunch – Chopped walnuts or pecans add extra texture.
- Make it Dairy-Free – Use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but rolled oats provide better texture. Quick oats will make the base and topping softer.
Can I freeze Newfoundland Date Squares?
Absolutely! Wrap the squares in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How long do these date squares stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they last about 5 days. In the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Can I substitute the coconut?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit it or replace it with ground almonds for a nutty twist.
Why did my date squares crumble when cutting?
They need to cool completely before slicing. If they’re too warm, they’ll fall apart.
Easy Newfoundland Date Squares Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 16 squares | Calories: 423 kcal
Ingredients
For the Date Filling:
- 2 1/4 cups pitted dates, chopped
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 ½ tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups boiling water
For the Oat Crumb Base & Topping:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsweetened dried coconut
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, butter, sugar, and boiling water. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside to cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, coconut, baking powder, and brown sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Press half the oat mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly. Add the date filling over the base, then sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top. Lightly press down. Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 423 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 51mg
- Sodium: 179mg
- Potassium: 299mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 30g
- Vitamin A: 630 IU
- Calcium: 62mg
- Iron: 1.7mg