Spiced Smoky Date-Free Squares (Printable Version)
Rich, chewy squares with warming spices and a subtle smoky note for a flavorful, date-free twist.
# Ingredient List:
→ Filling
01 - 1 1/2 cups dried figs, chopped
02 - 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
03 - 1/2 cup water
04 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
08 - 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika, or to taste
09 - Pinch of salt
→ Crust & Topping
10 - 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
11 - 1 cup all-purpose flour, or gluten-free blend
12 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
15 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
17 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - Combine figs, apricots, water, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, smoked paprika, and salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until fruit softens and mixture thickens. Lightly mash and set aside to cool.
03 - In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted coconut oil and applesauce until crumbly and evenly moistened.
04 - Press two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create the base layer.
05 - Evenly spread the cooled fruit filling over the base layer.
06 - Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the filling and gently press down.
07 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown.
08 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting into 16 squares.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's naturally vegan and nut-free, meaning everyone at the table gets to enjoy it without worry.
- The smoked paprika transforms what could be ordinary into something with real personality and depth.
- These squares stay perfectly chewy for days, making them ideal for meal prep or bringing to gatherings.
02 -
- Let these squares cool completely before cutting—cutting them while warm will create a crumbly mess, but patience gives you clean, neat pieces.
- The smoked paprika can be increased to 1/4 teaspoon if you want that campfire quality to really announce itself, but start conservative and taste as you go.
03 -
- For extra smokiness, increase smoked paprika to 1/4 teaspoon, but do this gradually and taste your filling as you go so you don't overpower the fruit.
- If your coconut oil is solid, melt it gently and let it cool slightly before mixing into your oats so it distributes evenly throughout without cooking anything.