Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups pitted dates
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown rice syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- 9x9 inch baking dish
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with coconut oil.
2. In a saucepan, combine the dates and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the dates are soft and the water has been absorbed.
3. In a food processor, pulse the date mixture until smooth. Add the brown rice syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract, and pulse until well combined.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
5. Pour the date mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly combined.
6. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula or your hands to smooth it out.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 16 squares
Nutritional information:
Per serving:
Calories: 170
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 90mg
Total carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary fiber: 3g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of brown rice syrup.
- If you don't have almond flour, you can use all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour instead.
- You can use any type of oil instead of coconut oil.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture for extra crunch.
- Use different types of dried fruit, such as figs or apricots, instead of dates.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the baking dish to ensure the squares hold together.
- Let the squares cool completely before cutting them to prevent them from falling apart.
- Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Storage instructions:
Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
These squares are best served at room temperature, but you can warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the squares on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top of the squares for extra texture.
Pairings:
These squares pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve these squares as a dessert or snack on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water or oil.
- If the squares are falling apart, make sure you press the mixture firmly into the baking dish and let them cool completely before cutting.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the squares in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or spoiling.
Food history:
Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from brown rice. It has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
These squares are sweet and chewy, with a nutty flavor from the almond flour and oats.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these squares as a dessert or snack on their own, or with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chewy, Caramel, Caramel-Like