Date Squares

Bring dates and 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) water to a boil in medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until mixture is thickened and only few pieces of dates remain, about 3 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla. Let stand to cool. Preheat oven to 350° F (180° C). Lightly spray 9 inch (23 cm) square baking dish with no-stick cooking spray; set aside. Combine flour, oats, sugar and baking soda in medium bowl. Cut in Becel® Original margarine and 2 tablespoons (30 mL)water with pastry blender or finger tips until mixture is size of small peas. Press 1/2 of the mixture onto bottom of dish. Top evenly with cooled date mixture. Crumble remaining oatmeal mixture over date mixture; press gently. Bake until crumb is golden brown, about 30 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack before cutting. An old-fashioned square that's perfect for a lunch box or picnic.