Cranberry Date Bars

This recipe is always a great treat. It is sweet and tart at the same time. Great for the holidays or any occasion.


Ingredients
1 12-ounce package cranberries
1 8-ounce package of chopped pitted dates
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup melted butter

Directions

1. For filling, in a medium saucepan combine cranberries and dates. Cook covered over low heat 10-15 minutes, until cranberries pop, stirring frequently. 
2. Stir in vanilla and set aside
3. Mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in butter till well blended.
4. Pat half of the mixture on the bottom of a 13x9x2-inch baking pan.
5. Bake 350 degrees for 8 minutes.
6. Take out of oven and spread filling over baked oat mixture.
7. Sprinkle remaining oat mixture on top. Pat gently.
8. Bake an additional 20 to 22 minutes.