For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Toast the walnuts before chopping for enhanced flavor and crunch. Store the baked squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Indulge in these decadent chocolate squares, a delightful combination of chewy date filling, rich chocolate topping, and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). (5 minutes)
In a saucepan, combine chopped dates and boiling water. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dates are softened and the mixture is slightly thickened. Set aside to cool slightly. (10 minutes)
In a large bowl, cream together sugar and shortening until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. (5 minutes)
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and cocoa powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in vanilla extract and the cooled date mixture. (5 minutes)
Pour the batter into a greased 9x11 inch baking pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped walnuts evenly over the top. (2 minutes)
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. (25-30 minutes)
Let cool completely before cutting into squares. (30 minutes)
For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Toast the walnuts before chopping for enhanced flavor and crunch. Store the baked squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Luna Wyman
Jun 29, 2025I love how easy this recipe is to follow. The squares turned out perfectly!
Derick Schinner
Jun 15, 2025These chocolate squares are amazing! The date filling is so soft and the chocolate topping is the perfect touch.
Aubrey Blanda
Jun 5, 2025I added a pinch of cinnamon to the batter, and it gave it a wonderful warm flavor.