These caramel date fingers are a classic bake with a tender shortcake base and topping wrapped around a rich, naturally sweet date filling. Simple, comforting, and perfect with a cup of tea, they’re ideal for baking at home using everyday pantry ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special equipment. The date filling becomes soft and caramel-like as it cooks, pairing beautifully with the buttery shortcake layers. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and works well for lunchboxes, gatherings, or afternoon tea. You can also adapt it with different dried fruits to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Filling:
1 cup dates, chopped
1 cup water
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon butter
2 teaspoons cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon vanilla essence

Base:
125 g butter, softened
½ cup white sugar
1 large egg
1¾ cups plain flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

Directions

Place the chopped dates, water, brown sugar, butter, and cocoa powder into a saucepan. Cook gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes smooth and thick like a paste. Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla essence, and set aside to cool.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly grease a 20 cm square baking tin and line the base and two sides with baking paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat well until fully incorporated.

Sift the flour and baking powder together, then mix into the butter mixture to form a soft dough.

Press half of the dough evenly into the base of the prepared tin. Spread the cooled date filling evenly over the dough.

Roll or press the remaining dough between two sheets of baking paper into a square the size of the tin. Carefully place it over the filling and press down gently.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden. Allow to cool in the tin, then lift out and cut into finger-sized pieces.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 16 fingers
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 50 minutes

Variations

You can replace the dates with prunes, dried apricots, raisins, or a combination of dried fruits for a different flavor. Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling can give a warm, spiced note. For a richer base, substitute a few tablespoons of flour with ground almonds.

Storage/Reheating

Store caramel date fingers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow frozen pieces to thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary, but they can be gently warmed if desired.

FAQs

Can I make these caramel date fingers ahead of time?

Yes, they keep well for several days, making them perfect for baking in advance.

Can I use store-bought date paste instead of whole dates?

Yes, but reduce the water slightly and adjust the sweetness to taste.

Do I need to use cocoa powder in the filling?

The cocoa adds depth of flavor but can be omitted if preferred.

Can I make this recipe egg-free?

You can replace the egg with a suitable egg substitute designed for baking.

What size tin works best for this recipe?

A 20 cm square tin gives the ideal thickness for even layers.

How do I know when the slice is fully baked?

The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, the natural sweetness of dates allows for a slight reduction without affecting texture too much.

Are caramel date fingers suitable for freezing?

Yes, they freeze very well when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, a baking-friendly spread works well in both the filling and base.

How should I cut them neatly into fingers?

Allow the slice to cool completely, then use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Conclusion

Caramel date fingers are a timeless baked treat that combines simplicity with comforting flavor. With their soft, sweet filling and buttery shortcake layers, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served fresh or stored for later, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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