Oatmeal-Date Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Combine dates, water and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
2. 2
   Set aside.
3. 3
   Cream butter; gradually add brown sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. 4
   Add vanilla, beating well.
5. 5
   Combine oats and next 4 ingredients; add to creamed mixture, stirring until mixture resembles coarse meal.
6. 6
   Press 2 cups oat mixture evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan coated with cooking spray; set remaining oat mixture aside.
7. 7
   Bake at 375° for 5 minutes or until crust looks puffed.
8. 8
   Spread date mixture over prepared crust and top with remaining oat mixture.
9. 9
   Bake at 375° for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. 10
    Cool in pan on a wire rack.
11. 11
    Cut into bars.
12. 12
    Yield: 16 bars.