If you’re craving a delightful dessert that’s both nutritious and satisfying, these Date and Oatmeal Bars with Custard Cream are a perfect choice. The natural sweetness of dates combined with hearty oats forms a chewy base, while a luscious homemade custard adds a creamy layer. Topped with fresh fruits, these bars strike the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making them a guilt-free treat for any time of the day. This recipe is great for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Date and Oatmeal Base:

Dates: 300 grams (pitted and chopped)
Oatmeal: 120 grams (about 1 cup)

For the Custard Cream:

Sugar: 40 grams (about 3 tablespoons)
Egg yolks: 2
Cornstarch: 15 grams (about 1 tablespoon)

Milk: 250 ml (about 1 cup)
Butter: 15 grams (about 1 tablespoon)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

For Garnishing:

Fresh fruits: Any fruits of your choice (strawberries, kiwi, mango, berries, etc.)

Making It Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Date and Oatmeal Base

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Blend the dates in a food processor until they form a sticky paste. If the dates are too dry, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before blending.

Mix the date paste with the oatmeal in a bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure the mixture is well combined and forms a thick dough-like consistency.
Press the date-oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

Step 2: Make the Custard Cream

In a small saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a custard consistency (this should take about 5-7 minutes).

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Let the custard cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Once the oatmeal base has cooled, pour the cooled custard cream over the top and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Top with fresh fruits of your choice. You can slice strawberries, kiwi, or other berries to decorate the top beautifully.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the custard to set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After chilling, remove the dessert from the baking dish and cut it into bars or squares.

Serve immediately for a refreshing treat or store them in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Cooking Tips

Using Fresh Dates: If your dates are dry, soaking them in warm water will help soften them for easier blending. Medjool dates work particularly well because they’re soft and sweet.
Make It Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats.

Customize the Fruit Topping: Feel free to use any seasonal fruits you prefer. Berries, kiwi, mango, and even bananas work well with the creamy custard.
Chill for Best Results: Allowing the bars to chill for at least an hour will help the custard set properly and make slicing much easier.

Storage

Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The custard will hold up well, and the base will stay firm.

Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 1 month. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, for 1 bar)

Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 5g

Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 40mg

FAQs

Can I use instant oats for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use instant oats, but rolled oats provide a better texture and more bite. If using instant oats, the base may be slightly softer.
What type of milk can I use for the custard?
- You can use any type of milk, whether it’s dairy or plant-based (such as almond or oat milk). Full-fat milk will give a richer, creamier custard.

Can I make the custard in advance?
- Absolutely! You can make the custard a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Can I substitute the dates with another fruit?
- You can substitute the dates with dried figs or prunes, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Dates provide a natural caramel-like sweetness that works well in this recipe.
Is it possible to add nuts to the base?
- Yes! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can be added to the oatmeal and date mixture for extra crunch and nutrition.

Conclusion

The Date and Oatmeal Bars with Custard Cream and Fresh Fruits offer a delicious and healthier alternative to conventional desserts. The chewy date-oatmeal base combined with the creamy homemade custard and the refreshing touch of fresh fruits creates a balanced and satisfying treat that’s sure to impress. Not only is this dessert easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you want a quick snack or a light dessert for entertaining guests, these bars are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Enjoy these nutrient-packed, flavorful bars for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.