“Food for the Gods” is a rich and chewy dessert bar traditionally made with chopped dates and nuts, believed to have originated in the Philippines. The name evokes its luxurious texture and flavor, combining the caramel-like sweetness of dates with the crunch of walnuts. This version, baked slowly at a low temperature, delivers a golden-brown crust with a soft, dense center that’s perfect for special occasions or holiday gift boxes. Served warm with whipped cream or ice cream, it becomes an indulgent comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 1½ cups sugar
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 cups nuts (chopped, e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- 2 cups dates (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Beat eggs and sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and frothy.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
- Sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Fold in Add-Ins
- Stir in chopped nuts and dates until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake
- Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut into squares and serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Tips
- Toast the chopped nuts lightly before adding for deeper flavor
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts
- Cut while slightly warm for softer edges, or fully cool for neat squares
- Substitute walnuts with pecans for a sweeter nut profile
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes
- Serve warm with whipped cream as suggested on the card
- Ice cream or custard also pair well for a plated dessert
- Store tightly wrapped; flavors improve after a day
- This recipe freezes well when cut into squares
Nutrition
Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 4gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 85mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 33gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!