Orange Date Crumble Bars

Orange Date Crumble Bars

Originally published on  December 3 2009, photo update December 9, 2012.

This is a twist on a classic Newfoundland favorite, the Date Crumble. The classic recipe for these well loved treats can be found here along with an opinion on what makes a great date crumble:

http://rockrecipes.blogspot.com/2007/10/date-crumbles.html

This is basically the same recipe but with orange juice and orange zest added to the filling for a surprising but delectable version of this classic square.

Orange Date Crumbles

First prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan combine and gently boil until thickened (about 10 minutes):

12 oz pkg dates, chopped

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp cocoa

2 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp vanilla

1 ¼ cups orange juice

zest of one large orange, finely grated or minced

Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the crumble mixture.

In a large bowl toss together:

2 tsp baking powder

2 cups oats (large)

1 cup unsweetened coconut

2 cups flour

1 cup brown sugar

Using your hands, rub thoroughly through the dry ingredients:

1 ½ cups butter, cut in small cubes.

Divide crumble mixture in half and press half into the bottom of a 9x13 inch greased baking pan. Spread date mixture over the base. Top with remaining crumb mixture, breaking it into small pieces with your fingers. Bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees F.