Date Raisin Squares - Microwave

Derf's Note:

As good as any baked in the oven and quicker.

• Total Time: 43 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 33 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 25 squares

Filling

• 1 ½ cups dates , chopped
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup raisins
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Crumbles

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oat
• 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter , softened

Directions:

1. Filling-------.
2. Combine dates, water, raisins and lemon juice in 4 cup measure.
3. Cover with vented plastic wrap and microwave at high 4-6 minutes or until boiling.
4. Stir every 2 minutes.
5. Dates should be soft.
6. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes.
7. Uncover and cool to lukewarm, stirring occasionally.
8. Crumbles------.
9. Combine first 5 dry ingredients in mixing bowl.
10. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly.
11. Press half firmly into 8 inch square microwave baking dish.
12. Spread with date filling.
13. Sprinkle with remaining crumble mixture, patting down lightly.
14. Microwave at medium high for 9 minutes, rotating every 3 minutes, (not necessary if you have a rotating plate) remove from microwave and cover with aluminum foil.
15. Let stand covered directly on counter for 10 minutes.
16. Uncover and cool completely on wire rack.
17. Cut into small squares.

Reviews

[Eldeevee]

I love date squares and these did not disappoint. I really did not know what to expect as previous attempts to "bake in the microwave" never worked. I made a couple of changes to the filling based on the recipe I make in the oven. I increased the dates to 2 cups, included the zest of the lemon and I included the rest of the lemon juice with the water and still included the raisins. I would increase the measuring cup size if you want to make these changes as it boiled over. I couldn't wait until they cooled to try them and they were great. The crust wasn't soggy as I expected, but not like they would be had you baked them in the oven. Over all they are a success and I will continue to make them in the dog days of summer. Thank you Derf for posting such a great recipe.