Name: Canadian Date Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted dates, chopped; 1 cup water; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice (optional); 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Canadian Date Squares are easy to make, yet they feel special and homemade. The chewy, sweet date filling pairs beautifully with the crumbly oat crust and topping. They are perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or an everyday afternoon treat. Not overly sweet, these bars appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pitted dates, chopped
Water
Granulated sugar
Lemon juice (optional)
Rolled oats
All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine dates, water, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture becomes thick and smooth. Stir in lemon juice if using. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.
Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spread the date filling evenly over the base layer.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top, pressing lightly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.
Cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 squares.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture for crunch.
Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
Swap lemon juice with orange zest for a citrus twist.
Make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Reduce sugar in the date filling for a less sweet version.

Storage/Reheating

Canadian Date Squares store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These bars are typically enjoyed at room temperature, but can be warmed slightly in the microwave if desired.

FAQs

What are Canadian Date Squares?

They are dessert bars made with a sweet date filling layered between a crumbly oat mixture.

Why are they called Matrimonial Squares?

The name is thought to symbolize the “union” of two layers (oat crust and topping) held together by the date filling.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats are preferred for structure.

Do I need to use lemon juice?

No, it’s optional, but it adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the dates.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I cut neat squares?

Allow the bars to cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Are Canadian Date Squares healthy?

They contain fiber from oats and natural sweetness from dates, but they are still a dessert with sugar and butter.

Can I use fresh dates instead of dried?

It’s best to use dried dates for the right texture, as fresh dates can be too soft.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can cut back slightly on sugar in both the filling and crust without affecting the structure.

Do they freeze well?

Yes, they freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making them perfect for preparing ahead.

Conclusion

Canadian Date Squares are a nostalgic and comforting dessert that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor. With their chewy date filling and buttery oat crumble, they make the perfect treat for coffee breaks, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a homemade square that feels both classic and satisfying. This timeless recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.