Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars

Introduction

History

The recipe for Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars has been passed down through generations in Saskatchewan, Canada. It is a popular dessert in the region and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of dates and orange juice in this recipe is a nod to the abundance of fresh fruit that grows in the area.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop the dates finely to ensure they blend well into the batter.

- Be sure to cook the date mixture until the dates are soft to ensure a smooth texture in the bars.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares to prevent them from falling apart.

- Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars are best served as a dessert or snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat after a meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the date mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

- Mix the wet and dry ingredients together gently to avoid overmixing the batter.

- Bake the bars in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dates, you can use raisins or dried apricots instead.

- Substitute orange juice with apple juice or pineapple juice for a different flavor profile.

- Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The bars can also be frozen for up to 1 month.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into different shapes, such as triangles or circles, for a fun presentation. - Dust the bars with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a decorative touch. - Serve the bars on a platter with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an elegant dessert display.

Pairing Recommendations

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars pair well with a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. They also go well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars contains approximately 250 calories. Calories are a measure of the energy content in food and are important for maintaining a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars contains approximately 10 grams of fat. Fat is important for providing energy, supporting cell growth, and aiding in the absorption of vitamins.

Proteins

Each serving of Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars contains approximately 4 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars are a good source of vitamin C, which is found in the orange juice and orange peel. Vitamin C is important for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.

Alergens

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars contain nuts (pecans) and dairy (butter and milk). These bars may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and vitamins, making them a well-rounded dessert option.

Summary

Saskatchewan Orange-glazed Date Bars are a delicious and sweet dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These bars are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with family and friends. With a burst of citrus flavor from the orange glaze and a rich, chewy texture from the dates and pecans, these bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a cold winter day in Saskatchewan, and my dear friend Margaret had invited me over for tea and a chat. As I stepped into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked goods. Margaret had a talent for baking, and I always looked forward to sampling her latest creations.

On this particular day, Margaret had made a batch of Orange-glazed Date Bars. As soon as I took a bite, I knew I had to have the recipe. The bars were the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a buttery crust that melted in my mouth. I begged Margaret to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.

Margaret explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The bars were a family favorite, enjoyed at special occasions and holiday gatherings. Margaret's grandmother had originally hailed from England, and she had brought the recipe with her when she immigrated to Canada many years ago.

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn the recipe from Margaret, and she patiently guided me through the process of making the Orange-glazed Date Bars. The first step was to prepare the crust, a simple mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. I carefully pressed the dough into a greased baking pan, then popped it into the oven to bake until golden brown.

While the crust was baking, Margaret showed me how to make the filling. The key ingredient was, of course, dates – plump, juicy dates that had been soaked in hot water to soften them. I chopped the dates into small pieces and mixed them with sugar, orange zest, and a splash of fresh orange juice. The filling was then spread over the baked crust, creating a delicious layer of sweetness.

As the bars cooled, Margaret whipped up a quick glaze to drizzle over the top. The glaze was made with powdered sugar, orange juice, and a touch of butter, creating a glossy finish that added the perfect touch of sweetness to the bars. I couldn't wait to try the finished product.

When the bars were finally ready, Margaret cut them into squares and served them on a pretty platter. I took a bite and savored the sweet, citrusy flavor of the Orange-glazed Date Bars. They were even better than I had remembered, and I knew they would become a staple in my own baking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Orange-glazed Date Bars countless times, sharing the recipe with friends and family who have all fallen in love with the delicious treat. Each time I bake a batch, I think of Margaret and her generosity in sharing her family recipe with me. The bars have become a beloved tradition in my own family, enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations just as they were in Margaret's.

As I sit here now, savoring a freshly baked Orange-glazed Date Bar and reminiscing about that cold winter day in Saskatchewan, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friendships and cherished recipes that have enriched my life. Cooking is so much more than just preparing food – it is a way to connect with others, to create memories, and to carry on traditions that have been passed down through the generations. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Categories

| Bar Cookie Recipes | Canadian Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Dates Recipes | Egg Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Orange Peel Recipes | Pecan Recipes |

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