Apple Date-Nut Bars

1. 1

   In a heavy saucepan combine the apples, the granulated sugar, the lemon juice, and the water and simmer the mixture, covered, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender.

2. 2

   Add the dates, simmer the mixture, uncovered, stirring it and mashing the dates, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the dates are soft and the mixture is almost smooth, and let the puree cool.

3. 3

   In a bowl combine the butter, the brown sugar, the salt, the flour, the pecans, and the cinnamon and blend the mixture well.

4. 4

   Press half the flour mixture evenly into a buttered 13- by 9-inch baking pan, spread the puree over it, and crumble the remaining flour mixture over the puree, pressing it lightly to form an even layer.

5. 5

   Bake the mixture in the middle of a preheated 375F oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until it is golden, let it cool completely in the pan on a rack, and cut it into 36 bars.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

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