Blind Date Bars

1-1/3 C pitted dates, chopped (6-oz pkg)
3/4 C water
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1-1/4 C rolled oats
1/3 C brown sugar
1/4 C whole-wheat flour
3 T margarine, melted

Cook dates, water, and cinnamon over low heat until almost all liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Mix oats, sugar, and flour; stir in margarine until mixture is crumbly. Press two-thirds of oatmeal mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch square cake pan.

Bake at 350° for 10 to 15 minutes, until golden brown. Spread date mixture over the baked layer. Sprinkle remaining oatmeal mixture over the dates; press lightly with fingertips. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Cool before cutting into 16 squares. Store loosely covered.

Suggestion:

• Figs or other dried fruit may be substituted for part or all of the dates.