A "surprise" classic treat today, and truly delicious.

Matrimonial Squares

Ingredients

Crumb Layer:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1 cup brown sugar

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup butter (or margarine, if preferred)

Filling:

1/2 lb. cut up dates

1/2 cup white granulated sugar

2/3 cups each of water and lemon juice/zest

Directions:

For crumb layer, measure all ingredients and put into large bowl. Add butter or margarine with the other

ingredients until mixture becomes crumbly. Press a large half, or almost 2/3 of mixture into a greased

9 by 9 inch square pan or glass dish. For filling, combine dates, sugar, water and lemon juice/zest in a

big saucepan. Bring to a full boil, and allow to simmer until mushy. If mixture is still too dry, add more

lemon and water accordingly. Spread filling over bottom layer of crumbs. Sprinkle any remaining

crumbs over the top. Press entire mixture down with your hands, only if absolutely necessary. Bake in

pre-heated oven at 350 degrees F. for 30 minutes. 

*Please note*

Results may vary over time, depending on the number of times this dessert or light snack is perfected.

One alternative is also adding 1 tsp. of cinnamon to the dough, along with two whole lemons. Lastly,

enjoy this delicious dish with your favourite beverage, if so desired.