Oatmeal Date Squares

Preheat your oven to a high temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (or 175 degrees Celsius, if you prefer metric). This will ensure that your oven is nice and hot for the next steps.

In a large mixing container, combine rolled oats, all-purpose pastry flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Use your hands or a spoon to mix these dry ingredients together until they form a cohesive blend.

Add the cold, cubed butter to this mixture and continue to combine until it reaches a crumbly consistency. Press approximately half of the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch square baking pan, creating an even base.

In a small saucepan, combine chopped dates, water, and the remaining 1/3 cup of brown sugar. Place this saucepan over medium heat on your stovetop and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally.

Once the filling has reached its desired consistency, remove it from the heat source and stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Pour this sweet and tangy mixture over the base you created earlier.

Spread the remaining crumbly mixture evenly over the top of the filling, creating a uniform layer.

Place this delightful creation in your preheated oven and bake until the top is lightly toasted, taking about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove it from the oven and let it cool before cutting into 12 equal-sized squares.