Definition & Meaning of "date square"

What is "date square"?

A date square, also known as a date bar or matrimony cake, is a sweet dessert made up of two layers of crumbly pastry dough and a layer of sweet, sticky date filling in the middle. The dough is typically made from a mixture of flour, oats, butter, and sugar, and is pressed into a baking dish to form the bottom layer. The date filling is made from a mixture of chopped dates, water, and sugar, which is cooked until thick and spread over the bottom layer of dough. The remaining dough is then crumbled on top of the date filling to form the top layer. Date squares are a popular dessert in many countries, including Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and are often served with a cup of coffee or tea. They can be enjoyed as a snack or as a dessert after a meal.