Salted Caramel Date Squares
Prep
20 mins
Cook
35 mins
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
Salted Caramel Date Squares are a decadent baked treat combining buttery shortbread with sweet dates and rich salted caramel sauce. Made with all purpose flour, butter, both granulated and brown sugar, dried dates, cinnamon and cream, these indulgent squares take just 20 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake. They suit anyone craving a sophisticated dessert or elegant afternoon treat.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 250 gall-purpose flour
- 150 gunsalted butter
- 200 ggranulated sugar
- 100 gbrown sugar
- 200 gdried dates
- 10 gsalt
- 5 gground cinnamon
- 1 mlvanilla extract
- 1egg
- 150 mlheavy cream
- 150 gsalted caramel sauce
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper.
Tip: Optional: Use a silicone mat for easy release.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, brown sugar, and 150ml of water. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
Tip: This step is crucial to prevent sugar crystallization.
- 3
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 115°C on a candy thermometer.
Tip: Do not stir during this step.
- 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble and steam vigorously, so be cautious.
Tip: This is the moment to add the salted caramel sauce, stirring to combine.
- 5
Let the mixture cool slightly, then stir in the flour, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until just combined.
Tip: Be careful not to overmix.
- 6
Fold in the diced dates and egg until well combined.
Tip: Make sure to distribute the dates evenly.
- 7
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin and smooth the top.
Tip: Use a spatula or spoon to create a decorative pattern, if desired.
- 8
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Tip: Let the squares cool completely in the tin before cutting.
- 9
Cut into 6 squares and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tip: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, if desired.
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