Matrimonial Squares

Remember date squares? They used to be a standard treat for any visitor that arrived for tea. Since they can easily be made in large batches, and store well, these were a favorite for wedding receptions and large gatherings. Dates are very healthy and so is oatmeal. Forget that they are sweet!

Date filling:
Combine in sauce pan:

• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water

Bring to a boil and cook until dates are soft enough to be mashed with a fork. (about 5 minutes) The mixture will be like jam. Cool.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Crumb mixture:
Blend together:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/8 tsp salt

Cut in:

• 1 cup margarine

Blend in:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups rolled oats.

Press half of this mixture over the bottom of an 8 inch square baking pan. Cover evenly with cooled date filling. Then cover with remaining crumb mixture. Pat gently to smooth. Bake in preheated oven for 35 - 40 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool and cut into squares. Store in airtight container. Freezes well.