Making the date filling – (Microwave the mixture three separate times.) 

Step 1 – Place pitted dates in a clean microwave-safe glass bowl to make a date filling. Mix well with ½ cup of water, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and a pinch of sea salt. Microwave the mixture for 3 minutes, then remove the bowl and use a potato masher to mash the date mixture into a paste-like texture.

Step 2 – Add 1/4 cup of water to the date mixture for the second round, mix well, and microwave for three more minutes. Mash the mixture again to achieve a paste-like consistency.

Step 3 – For the final step, microwave the date mixture and add 1/4 cup of water. Mix well and microwave for another 3 minutes. Once done, use a potato masher to mash the mixture until it forms a smooth and complete paste.  Set the filling aside and let it cool. 

Making the Oatmeal crust and toppings- 

Step 4 – In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients, including oatmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix thoroughly using a spatula.

Step 5 – Incorporate room-temperature unsalted butter into the dry mixture using a fork or pastry cutter to create a crumbly texture. Test the mixture by picking up a small amount with your hand. If it is still sandy, add one tablespoon of butter until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.

Assemble the squares – 

Step 6 – First, preheat the oven to 350 F.  Prepare an 8×12 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or coating it with non-stick baking spray.

Step 7 – Add half of the oatmeal mixture into the tray, spreading it evenly. Then, pack the layer tightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass, ensuring the oatmeal mixture is compacted.

Step 8 – Spread the date filling evenly on top of the oatmeal mixture layer using a spatula.

Step 9 – Using a spatula, spread the remaining oatmeal mixture on top of the date-filling layer, making sure it is evenly distributed. Press firmly with your palm or the bottom of a glass to pack the oatmeal tightly.

Step 10 – Once the oatmeal mixture and date filling are evenly layered in the baking dish, place it in a preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 350F or until the top is golden brown.

Step 11 – After baking, allow the date squares to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the crust and filling settle before cutting them into small squares. Serve and enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.