Polynesian Bars

• Filling
• chopped dates2 cups
• vanilla↗1 tablespoon
• crushed pineapple (about 1 can)↗2 1⁄2 cups
• Crust
• whole wheat flour↗1 cup
• coconut1 cup
• chopped pecans1⁄2 cup
• rolled oats↗3 cups
• orange juice↗1 cup
• brown sugar↗1⁄4 cup
• oil1⁄4 cup

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Combine filling ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to low boil, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Continue to stir/cook until mixture reaches a thick consistency and the dates have absorbed the juice.

2. 2

   Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. 3

   Then, in a medium-large bowl, combine ingredients for the crust. Once mixed fully, it will be crumbly, but slightly sticky.

4. 4

   Press about half of the crust mixture into a 9x13 inch pan. Top with the filling, then crumble the remainder of the crust mixture atop the filling.

5. 5

   Bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes. Allow to cool thoroughly before cutting.