Dates have such a natural sweet flavour and they take this slice to a really yummy place. I used half quinoa flour and half plain flour as I do find the flavour of quinoa flour to be quite strong. I chopped the slice into squares and now have a stash of healthy sweet treats in the freezer. These are great for travelling lunch boxes, or just as an afternoon snack for you…and the kids.

Nutrition Note:  Dates, delicious in desserts or eaten on their own, are high in fibre and nutrient rich including iron, calcium and magnesium.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 cup wholemeal plain flour (or try quinoa flour)
• 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
• 30g unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup apple puree or apple sauce
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut

Method

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 190°C. Grease a 23cm square baking dish or line with baking paper. -

Step 2

In a smal saucepan over medium heat, combine the dates and boiling water. Stir until the water has been absorbed and the dates are smooth. Remove from the heat and stir through the lemon juice and apple puree. Set aside. -

Step 3

Combine the oats, flour, coconut and butter to make a crumbly mixture. Add to the date mixture and stir to combine. -

Step 4

Place mixture into the baking tray, press down to compact the mixture. Bake for around 25 minutes, remove and leave in the pan to cool. Slice, and keep in the refrigerator or freeze in small portions for up to 2 months. -