Date Squares

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Grease a 13- by 9- by 2-inch metal baking pan, then line with foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on 2 opposite sides, and butter foil.
3. 3
   Whisk together flour, salt, and spices.
4. 4
   Beat together butter and granulated sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes in a standing mixer (preferably fitted with paddle attachment) or 6 minutes with a handheld.
5. 5
   Reduce speed to low and add eggs 1 at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. 6
   Add baking soda mixture and mix until combined.
7. 7
   Add flour mixture, walnuts, and dates and mix until just combined.
8. 8
   Spread batter evenly in baking pan and bake in middle of oven until a tester comes out clean, 50 minutes to 1 hour.
9. 9
   Cool in pan on a rack 15 minutes.
10. 10
    Carefully lift date mixture out of pan using foil overhang and transfer to a cutting board.
11. 11
    Cut into 1-inch squares and peel from foil.
12. 12
    Toss warm squares a few at a time in confectioners sugar, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
13. 13
    Sprinkle with more confectioners sugar just before serving.