1 c. dates, chopped
1/2 c. raisins
1 c. water
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
2 eggs, beaten
1 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 tsp. vanilla
Nutmeats (optional)

Bars may be prepared in a loaf pan, if desired. Adjust baking time to 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In medium saucepan, combine dates, raisins, water and butter and boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

When cool, add beaten eggs to fruit mixture, stirring to combine. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well. Spoon mixture into an 8-inch square or a 7x11 inch baking pan (using microwave-proof baking dish, if cooking in a microwave). Bake in a 350 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes or microwave for 6 minutes.