CRISPY DATE BARS

Crispy Date Bars image

I make these chewy bars around the holidays because they make a nice-size batch for my family. Plus, they keep well in the refrigerator, so I can make them when it's convenient. -Anna Sheehan, Spokane, Washington

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 40m

Yield 2 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 15

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup cold butter
FILLING:
1 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 large egg, beaten
2 cups crisp rice cereal
1 cup chopped nuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
FROSTING:
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar; cut in butter until crumbly. Press into a greased 9-in. square baking pan. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. , Meanwhile, in a heavy saucepan, combine the dates, sugar and butter; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook and stir for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 cup hot mixture to egg; return all to pan. Bring to a boil. Remove from the heat; stir in cereal, nuts and vanilla. Spread over crust. Cool on a wire rack. , In a small bowl, combine frosting ingredients; beat until creamy. Frost bars; cut and store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 235 calories, Fat 12g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 33mg cholesterol, Sodium 114mg sodium, Carbohydrate 31g carbohydrate (23g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 3g protein.