Gluten-Free Date Squares
A touch of orange adds some tang to Chef Simon’s delicious Gluten-Free Date Squares.
When baking gluten-free, watch for certified GF oats, to avoid cross-contamination with other grains.
Makes: 12 servings
Free of: gluten and all top allergens
Photo: Chris Gonzaga
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups (475 mL) pitted dates
- 3/4 cup (180 mL) water
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) orange zest
- 2 tbsp orange juice
Crumb Layer
- 1 cup (250 mL) rice flour
- 1 cup (250 mL) rolled gluten-free oats (large)
- 1 tsp (5 mL) baking soda
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) allergy-safe vegetable shortening
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Combine dates and water in a medium saucepan. Cover and cook on medium 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a paste forms. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest and juice. Set aside.
- For crumb layer: combine rice flour, oats, baking soda and salt in mixing bowl. Melt butter or shortening and brown sugar in a small saucepan on low heat. Pour into flour mixture and add vanilla. Stir to combine.
- Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan. Place two-thirds of crumb mixture into pan and press in lightly. Add date filling and top with remaining crumb mix.
- Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove and cool. Cut into 12 squares. Serve or store in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
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