These Ultimate Date Bars start with a sweet buttery oatmeal crust and topping and they are stuffed with a delicious date filling.  An original Betty Crocker recipe from years ago, these are the ultimate date bars.  They are not only scrumptious but addicting too! 

For the Crust and Crumb Topping

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups quick or old fashioned oats, (I use quick)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Date Filling

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) chopped pitted dates
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water