This chewy, cinnamon-scented oatmeal bar boasts a delightfully sweet date filling that is sure to please. These bars are perfect for lunch box treats and snacking anytime of the day.

Date Bars

8 ounces chopped dates

3/4 cup NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup quick-cooking oats

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease 8-inch-square baking pan.
2. Combine dates, evaporated milk, sugar and vanilla extract in medium saucepan. Cook, over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat.
3. Beat butter and brown sugar in large mixer bowl until creamy. Beat in flour, oats, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. With floured fingers, press half of crust mixture onto bottom of prepared baking pan. Spread date filling over crust. Top with remaining crust.
4. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden.

Makes 16 bars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/16 of recipe): Calories: 180 Calories from Fat: 60 Total Fat: 7 g Saturated Fat: 4 g Cholesterol: 20 mg Sodium: 160 mg Carbohydrates: 29 g Dietary Fiber: 2 g Sugars: 19 g Protein: 2 g

Recipe and photograph are the property of Nestlé® and Meals.com, used with permission.