1 1/2 c. cut-up dates
2 tbsp. granulated sugar
3/4 c. water
1/2 sq. (1/2 oz.) unsweetened chocolate
1/3 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
3/4 c. quick-cooking oats
1/3 c. finely chopped nuts

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Grease square pan, 8x8x2 inch or 9x9x2 inch. Cook dates, granulated sugar, water and chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly about 10 minutes or until mixture thickens. Cool.

Cream butter and brown sugar. Mix in remaining ingredients. Press half the mixture evenly in bottom of pan. Spread with date mixture; top with remaining crumble mixture, pressing lightly. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool, cut into bars, about 2 x 1 1/2. (2 dozen cookies)