New Zealand Squares

Indulge in the wholesome flavors of New Zealand Squares, a classic treat that perfectly balances chewy sweetness and hearty texture. This easy-to-make dessert layers a crumbly oat and brown sugar mixture with a rich, homemade date filling, creating a delightful medley of flavors in every bite. Made with pantry-friendly ingredients like rolled oats, pitted dates, and melted butter, these squares are both budget-friendly and satisfying. With just 20 minutes of prep time and under 40 minutes in the oven, this recipe is perfect for a quick bake to share at gatherings or enjoy as an afternoon snack. Serve these golden, naturally sweet bars on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Perfect for lovers of oatmeal desserts and date-based recipes—New Zealand Squares are your new go-to favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rolled oats
• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.75 cup Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups Pitted dates, chopped
• 0.75 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and baking powder. Mix well to evenly incorporate the dry ingredients.

Step 3

Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 4

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the dates break down and form a thick paste, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the date filling cool slightly.

Step 6

Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.

Step 7

Spread the date filling evenly over the base layer using a spatula to ensure even coverage.

Step 8

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the date filling and press down gently to create the top layer.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Step 10

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Slice into 16 squares and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1173.3 grams (1173.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4030

Total Fat 158.20g	203%
Saturated Fat 93.70g	469%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 388mg	129%
Sodium 520mg	23%
Total Carbohydrate 629.60g	229%
Dietary Fiber 47.70g	170%
Total Sugars 344.60g
Protein 55.50g	111%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 406mg	31%
Iron 20mg	113%
Potassium 3227mg	69%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.2%

Protein: 5.3%

Carbs: 60.5%