Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped dates
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Special Equipment Needed:
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Electric mixer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Gradually blend in dry ingredients.
4. Stir in dates and pecans. Spread evenly into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in preheated oven. When done, the top should be golden brown.
6. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 9 squares
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 270
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: margarine or vegetable shortening
- Brown sugar: white sugar or honey
- Dates: raisins or dried cranberries
- Pecans: walnuts or almonds
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the batter for a spiced flavor.
- Substitute 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips for 1/2 cup of the dates.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with the sugar.
- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter will bring out their flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the squares on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans and a dollop of whipped cream.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the top of the squares is browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
- If the squares are too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Do not leave the squares at room temperature for more than 5 days.
Food History:
Dates and pecans have been used in baking for centuries. The combination of the two is believed to have originated in the Middle East.
Flavor Profiles:
The dates and pecans add a sweet and nutty flavor to the squares.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the squares as a dessert or as an afternoon snack.
Related Categories
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Caramel, Chewy, Caramel-Like