Real Recipes From Real Home Cooks ®

freedom cookie bars!

Recipe by
Janet Scott
Wittmann, AZ

Oh my goodness, I threw these together tonight craving something with dates and Oatmeal. After I took them out of the oven and "Snitched" a little corner it was exactly want I wanted and MORE! You really need to try these, they are amazing! My friend told me I should call them "Freedom Bars" because with all that fiber...your gonna' be set free. LOL They are not 100% healthy with having sugar and butter in them but I think you have to have some balance...right?

yield 24 serving(s)
prep time 30 Min
cook time 40 Min
method Bake

Ingredients For freedom cookie bars!

  • 2 1/2 c
    all purpose flour
  • 1 c
    grandulated sugar
  • 1 c
    (2 sticks) unsalted butter - softened
  • 1 dash
    quick oats
  • 1 lg
    egg
  • 1/8 tsp
    salt
  • IN A SAUCEPAN ADD:
  • 1 pkg
    pitted dates (8oz) chopped - should equal 2 cups
  • 1/3 c
    raisins
  • 1/3 c
    grandulated sugar
  • 1 c
    water
  • 1/3 c
    water
  • OPTIONAL
  • 1/2 c
    chopped nuts to the topping for additional crunch and flavor

How To Make freedom cookie bars!

  • 1
    On low heat, stirring occasionally , cook until reduced and thickened, (about 15 min) or until thick and sticky.
  • 2
    Add 1/3 cup more water, cook down for about 3 - 5 more minutes. set aside to slightly cool.
  • 3
    In your mixer, add all ingredients using the paddle attachment just until blended and crumbly. after mixed, take out 1 cup and set aside. (Add chopped nuts to this cup if desired)
  • 4
    pour and press firmly the rest in a sprayed 9 x 13 casserole baking dish
  • 5
    add your date & raisin filling and spread evenly
  • 6
    top off with the left over crumbs
  • 7
    bake @ 350 degrees for 40 to 50 minutes or until lightly browned. Cut when still a little warm and place on a cooling rack. Makes 24 squares or whatever size you want.
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