Date Bars

1 c packed brown sugar

1/2 c margarine or butter, softened

1/4 c shortening

1 3/4 c all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c quick-cooking oats

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 pound dates, cut up (about 3 cups)

1 1/2 c water

1/4 c sugar

Heat oven to 400°. Mix brown sugar, margarine and shortening. Stir in 1 3/4 c flour, the oats, salt and baking soda. Remove 2 cups of the mixture; reserve. Press remaining mixture in ungreased rectangular pan, 13 x 9 x 2 inches.

Heat dates, water and sugar over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes; cool. 

Top with reserved oat mixture; press lightly. Bake until golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Cut into bars, about 2 x 1 1/2 inches, while warm. Refrigerate any remaining bars. 

36 bars