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

  1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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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