COGNAC DATE SQUARES

Cognac Date Squares image

Cider, cognac and pistachios provide new flavor to a classic. Cut into squares and place in a plastic sandwich bag, then bundle in tissue paper and slip into a reusable fabric sandwich bag tied with a ribbon. -Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 55m

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 pound chopped dates
3/4 cup apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
1/4 cup Cognac or brandy
1 teaspoon fine sea salt or kosher salt, divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios

Steps:

In a large saucepan, combine the dates, apple cider, Cognac and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until liquid is almost evaporated, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Cool to room temperature., In a small bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and remaining salt. Add butter; mix well. Press 1-1/3 cups into a greased 9-in. square baking pan. Add pistachios to remaining oat mixture; set aside., Spread date mixture over crust; top with reserved pistachio mixture. Bake at 350° for 24-28 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 301 calories, Fat 11g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 23mg cholesterol, Sodium 261mg sodium, Carbohydrate 50g carbohydrate (33g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 4g protein.