Ingredients
For the filling
18 ounces dates, chopped
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp sugar
1½ tablespoons vanilla
2 cups boiling water
For the crumble
2 cups rolled oats (large)(not quick oats)
2 tsp baking powder
1 cup unsweetened dried coconut (fine or medium cut)
2 cups flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 ½ cups butter, cut in small cubes
Instructions
For the filling
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper if you want.
As noted in the recipe description, some people prefer these date squares with less filling so you can reduce the amounts in the filling by ¼, 1/3 or even ½ if you prefer.
In a medium saucepan combine and gently simmer until thickened (about 10-15 minutes).
The filling should be very thick; you will need to watch it carefully and stir constantly in the last few minutes of cooking time.
Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the crumble mixture.
To prepare the crumble
In a large bowl, toss together the rolled oats, baking powder, coconut, flour and brown sugar.
Using your hands, rub the butter thoroughly through the dry ingredients.
Divide crumble mixture in half and press half into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Spread date mixture over the base.
Top with remaining crumb mixture, pressing it together in clumps in your hands and then breaking it into small pieces with your fingers to scatter evenly over the date filling.
Press down lightly.
Bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees F.
This is a very good basic recipe but I have also had very good variations of date crumbles over the years.
Orange Date Crumbles: Substitute orange juice for the water in the filling and add the zest of a medium orange.
Cocoa Date Crumbles: Add 4 tbsp cocoa to the filling.
Hazelnut or Almond Date Crumbles: Prepare filling as usual. Add ½ cup ground Almonds or Hazelnuts plus 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ tsp nutmeg to the crumble.
Source : allrecipes.com