Matrimonial Date Squares

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350.
2. 2
   Crumb Layer.
3. 3
   Combine first 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Cut in butter until mixture turns to a course crumb. Press slightly more than 1/2 of this mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 pan. Set aside rest of crumbs.
4. 4
   Date mixture.
5. 5
   Combine dates and water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil on medium heat. Reduce to medium low heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Dates will become soft and form a thick filling. Let cool for a few minutes then spread on bottom layer of crumbs.
6. 6
   Sprinkle top layer over the filling to completely cover. Slightly press down on top crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until top is golden brown. Let stand on wire rack till cool. Slice into squares.