Date Squares
Date Squares, also known as Matrimonial Cake, are a beloved Canadian dessert featuring a sweet date filling sandwiched between a buttery oat crumble crust. The filling is typically made from chopped dates, sugar, and water, while the crust and topping combine rolled oats, flour, butter, and brown sugar. This treat is particularly popular in Nova Scotia and is a staple in home baking across the country.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Date Squares are high in carbohydrates and fat due to the oats, sugar, and butter, providing quick energy along with some dietary fiber from the dates and oats. A single square (about 60g) typically contains around 250-300 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 20 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 50 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Copper | 0.2 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Selenium | 3 mcg |
Per 1 square (approx. 60 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The alternate name 'Matrimonial Cake' is thought to reflect its traditional role as a 'safe' dessert at social gatherings, symbolizing harmony and sweetness. Nutritionally, dates offer natural sweetness and minerals like potassium and magnesium, making it a slightly more nutrient-dense option compared to many other baked goods.
