Date Bars

These are one of my favorites. I use the dates that come already chopped and pitted.

• 3 CUPS CHOPPED DATES
• 1-1/2 CUPS WATER
• 1/2 CUP SOFTENED BUTTER OR MARGARINE
  
• 1/4 CUP SHORTENING
• 1 CUP BROWN SUGAR, PACKED
• 1-3/4 CUPS FLOUR
• 1 TSP SALT
• 1-1/2 CUPS QUICK-COOKING OATS

______________________________________________

Mix chopped dates and water together in saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, about 10 minutes or until to cool.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 13x9” baking pan.
Cream together butter, shortening and sugar; mix in re­maining ingredients. Press half the mixture evenly in bottom of pan. Spread with filling. Top with remaining crumbly mixture, pressing lightly.
Bake 25-30 minutes or until light brown. Cut into 2x1-1/2” bars while still warm.