Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C and grease a 9 × 13in / 23 × 33cm metal baking pan.
- Combine 510g of pitted chopped dates, 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 1½ tablespoons of vanilla extract, and 2 cups of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, until very thick, stirring constantly near the end. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, mix 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 cup of finely shredded unsweetened coconut, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of brown sugar.
- Rub in 1½ cups of cubed unsalted butter until evenly crumbly. Press half into the pan, spread with the date filling, and scatter the remaining crumble over it. Press lightly.
- Bake for 40 minutes, until golden. Cool before cutting into squares.