Step 1

Preheat oven to moderate, 180C (160C fan-forced). Lightly grease and line a 20 x 30cm slice pan.

Step 2

Combine dates, water and caster sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, 10-15 minutes, until dates have absorbed most of the liquid. Set aside to cool.

Step 3

Meanwhile, in a bowl, using an electric mixer, cream butter, brown sugar and syrup together, until light and fluffy. Sift flour and soda over butter mixture. Fold in lightly. Add oats; mix well.

Step 4

Press half the oat mixture into base of prepared pan. Spread date mixture over the top.

Step 5

Mix walnuts through remaining oat mixture. Crumble over date mixture, pressing lightly. Bake 30-35 minutes, until golden. Cut into slices when cold.