My recipe is similar to Bessie's grandmother's. Mine is an old family favorite straight from Betty Crocker's 1956 cookbook.
DATE-NUT SQUARES
Beat until foamy: 2 eggs
Beat in: 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 tsp. vanilla
Sift together and stir in: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. sale
(I don't think you have to sift anymore.)
Mix in 1/2 cup cut-up walnuts
2 cups cut-up pitted dates
Spread in a well-gressed 8" square pan (lined with parchment works well, too.)
Bake @ 325 degrees for 25-35 minutes. Top will have a dull crust.
Cut into squares, cool. If desired, roll in confectioner's sugar and shake off the excess.
These are rich and sweet and were always a special treat at Christmas because back then you could get dates only at that time of year, at least in Pittsburgh!