Food for the Gods (Dates and Walnuts Caramel Bar)

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Why is this recipe considered "Food for the Gods"? It describes an incredibly wonderful feast just from the term itself. Although this is an influenced recipe, it is quite popular in the Philippines as a wonderful Christmas gift. The pricey ingredients in this recipe, such as dates and walnuts, make it a classy treat for gift gifting.

I must have baked this dish over 300 times when I used to accept orders throughout the holiday season. Buyers would order hundreds of boxes to present as gifts to their businesses, families, or friends; it was one of my best-selling items. I don't blame them; it's simply too good! It's buttery, with smokey sweet burnt caramel molasses undertones and a hint of a prune-like aftertaste that complements the aromatic caramel-like sweetness of dates with the earthy, fruity, and mild acidity of walnuts.

Most of those who have tried them are dumbfounded and would simply close their eyes and take a deep breath, unable to imagine how exquisite this delight is in just a small bite. A modest mouthful can go a long way.

This is a divine treat that will leave you speechless...try it and you'll understand why. Promise.

Makes 1-9x9 inch pan (24 bars)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 tsp baking powder

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup chopped pitted Medjool dates

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Let's bake!

1. Preheat oven 350F. Line your 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper.

2. In a small sauce pan, melt butter with brown sugar until sugar is melted.

3. In large mixing bowl, combine butter mixure with granulated sugar, molasses and egg. Whisk until well combined.

4. Add flour and baking. Continue whisking until no traces of flour seen.

5. Using a rubber spatula, fold in dates and walnuts, making sure dates and walnuts are well combined into the mixure.

6. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Using an offset baking spatula, spread batter evenly. It will be thick, that's ok.

7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until center is set or does not jiggle.

8. Remove from oven. Place on cooling wire rack and let cool before slicing..

9. Cut into 24 small bars. Enjoy!