Canadian Date Squares
These Canadian Date Squares, also known as Matrimonial Cake, feature a rich Medjool date filling sandwiched between buttery oat crumble layers. They’re nostalgic, easy to make, and perfect for snacks, holiday trays, or cozy afternoon treats with tea.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2½ cups Medjool dates pitted and chopped
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp baking soda
Oat Layers:
- 1¾ cups quick oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup butter softened
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, cook dates, water, lemon juice, and brown sugar over medium heat until thickened (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in baking soda. Let cool.
- In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
- Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press half the oat mixture into the pan to form a base.
- Spread the cooled date filling evenly over the base.
- Top with the remaining oat mixture and press lightly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Medjool dates give the best texture and sweetness.
- Quick oats are essential—don’t substitute with rolled or steel-cut.
- Store in the fridge up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add cinnamon or nuts to the oat mixture for variation.