INGREDIENTS
250g dates.
100ml orange juice.
25ml lemon juice.
15ml castor sugar.
200ml soft brown sugar.
180ml flour.
150ml rolled oats.
125ml desiccated coconut.
pinch of salt.
finely grated rind of 1 lemon.
100g butter OR margarine.
INSTRUCTIONS
Chop the dates.
Place the dates, orange juice, lemon juice and castor sugar into a deep 750ml microwave safe bowl.
Microwave uncovered on 100% power for 3-4 minutes or until thick and soft.
Stir the mixture at 1 minute intervals.
Remove from the microwave and allow to cool.
In a bowl mix together the soft brown sugar, flour, oats, coconut, salt and lemon rind.
Rub in the butter OR margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Spray a shallow 24 x 19cm rectangular microwave safe dish with non-stick spray.
Using and egg lifter, press three-quarters of the crumbs down firmly on the base of the dish.
Place the dish on and inverted saucer in the microwave.
Microwave uncovered on 50% power for 3-4 minutes or until just done.
Spread the date filling lightly over the base.
Sprinkle the remaining crumbs over the top.
Place the dish on the inverted saucer.
Microwave uncovered on 100% power for about 5 minutes or until the crumb topping is done.
Allow to cool before cutting.
Cut into 4 x 6cm bars.
Store in an airtight container.
TIPS: – If the microwave does not have a turntable then you need to turn the dish regularly.
– These bars can be served with a topping of stiffly whipped cream.
