I have a lovely neighbour who hails from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and whenever he travels he always brings me a huge load of dates that the kids and I love to have. I also came across a recipe that I sort of modified and gave a twist to and it turned out pretty well so I’m sharing it with you. It’s very easy to make.

 

You will need:

2 eggs

¾ cup soft brown sugar

1 tspn vanilla essense

¾ self raising flour

400g pitted dates

½ cup walnuts (if you find these too expensive you can use cashewnuts as well)

½ cup crystalised ginger, chopped (I got mine from Healthy U but you get at Nakumatt & Chandarana too)

 

Method:

Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a 17x27cm rectangular cake tin with baking paper (I just use simple tracing paper), leaving an overhang on all sides.

In a bowl beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla essence until pale and fluffy.

Fold in the flour and then the dates, nuts and ginger into this mixture until combined well. Spoon this mixture into the prepared tray and use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in the tray.

Bake for 35-40 minutes (takes less time in a fan oven) or until firm and golden brown in colour.

Set aside to cool in the tin, then remove by using the paper overhang to lift the slab out.

Slice into bars and serve.

Please don’t ask me how long they last. They don’t go beyond 2 days in my home because the kids love to snack on these and make great break box fillers.