Middle Eastern Desserts

Date and Chocolate Chip Squares Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
5. Beat in vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add in flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in dates and chocolate chips.
8. Spread batter into prepared pan.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 24 squares

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the all-purpose flour, you can substitute with gluten-free flour.
- For the butter, you can substitute with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- For the light brown sugar, you can substitute with coconut sugar.
- For the eggs, you can substitute with flax eggs.
- For the dates, you can substitute with raisins or dried cranberries.
- For the semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can substitute with dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips.

Variations:
- You can add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- You can add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a hint of spice.
- You can add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to grease the baking pan before adding the batter to prevent sticking.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350 degree F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the date and chocolate chip squares on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Pairings:
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the bars are too soft, bake for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Food History:
Dates have been a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries.

Flavor Profiles:
The date and chocolate chip squares have a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or as an afternoon snack.

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Taste: Sweet, Rich, Fruity, Chocolatey