Discover the delightful combination of sweet and savory in these Rich Date and Cheese Crumble Bars. This dessert features a soft, crumbly base enriched with date syrup, topped with a creamy cheese layer, and finished with a crumbled dough topping. Infused with subtle hints of cinnamon and cardamom, these bars offer a complex flavor profile that marries the richness of dates with the creamy tang of cheese, creating a unique and satisfying dessert experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These bars are perfect for those who enjoy the interplay of flavors and textures. The buttery base and topping provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich middle layer of cheese. The addition of date syrup deepens the sweetness, while spices like cinnamon and cardamom add warmth and depth, making each bite a delightful exploration of taste.
Perfect Occasion
These Rich Date and Cheese Crumble Bars are versatile enough for various occasions, whether it’s a casual gathering, a festive celebration, or a sophisticated tea party. They are particularly fitting for holiday seasons, bringing warmth and joy to any dessert table. Serve them at brunch or as a sweet end to a family dinner; these bars are sure to impress.
Decoration Tips
For a lovely presentation, sprinkle the top with finely chopped pecans before baking, adding not only to the aesthetic but also introducing a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates. Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with additional date syrup for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 75 grams room-temperature butter
- 1/4 cup moist brown sugar
- 1 egg
- Vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup date syrup
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A pinch of cardamom
- 1/2 cup pitted dates (or more, to taste)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 8 pieces of Kiri cheese (or similar soft cream cheese)
- 1 egg yolk
- Vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: Cream together butter and brown sugar. Mix in the egg, vanilla, and date syrup. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a dough. Mix in the dates last. Press three-quarters of the dough into a 20x20 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze the remaining dough.
- Cheese Layer: Blend all cheese layer ingredients until smooth. Pour over the prepared base.
- Top and Bake: Grate the frozen dough over the cheese mixture. Sprinkle with chopped pecans. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for about 30 minutes or until golden and set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Enjoy!
Relish the unique and delicious blend of flavors in your Rich Date and Cheese Crumble Bars. These treats offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, making them a delightful addition to any culinary occasion. Enjoy the rich textures and complex tastes that make these bars a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.