Chewy holiday bars with brown sugar, walnuts, and chopped dates or prunes for a rich Filipino dessert that keeps well and slices neatly for gifting.
Prep time
15 mins
Cook time
25 mins
Total time
40 mins
Servings
16
Tools Used
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Ingredients
Ingredients
Servings
16 servings1×
Scale
Ingredient amounts update instantly.
Batter
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (170°C). Grease and line two 8x8 square pans.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar.
- 3
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- 4
Stir in liquid glucose.
- 5
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and baking soda, then gradually add to the wet mixture.
- 6
Fold in walnuts and chopped prunes or dates.
- 7
Transfer batter into prepared pans and spread evenly.
- 8
Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is almost firm.
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Learn More
Everything you want to know about this recipe.
Food for the Gods is one of those holiday bars that feels richer after a little time has passed. The dates or prunes soften further, the walnuts settle into the crumb, and the brown sugar flavor becomes deeper once the bars are fully cool.
The texture is what usually stands out first. These bars are denser and chewier than a standard blondie, which makes them good for slicing, wrapping, and giving away during the holidays.
They are also practical because they keep well. That makes them useful when you want a dessert that can be baked ahead instead of finished at the last minute.
What Helps These Bars Stay Chewy
What Helps These Bars Stay Chewy
Liquid glucose helps the bars keep their dense, sticky chew, but it also helps not to overbake them. Pulling the pans when the top is nearly set keeps the interior from drying out as it cools.
Chopped fruit should be distributed evenly through the batter so the bars slice cleanly. If the pieces are too large, the center can tear when cut.
Serving And Storage Notes
Serving And Storage Notes
Cool the bars completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife for cleaner edges. They are good plain, but also pair well with coffee or black tea.
Store them in an airtight container for several days at room temperature, or refrigerate if you want a firmer texture. They also freeze well for longer holiday prep.
These bars are often easier to portion on the second day than the first. Once the crumb has settled and the fruit has redistributed some moisture, the slices hold together better and the flavor tastes more rounded.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories 33017%
% Reference Intake*
Total Fat 15g21%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 50mg
Sodium 300mg
Total Carbohydrates 46g18%
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 0g0%
Protein 0g0%
* Reference intakes are based on an average adult's 8,400 kJ / 2,000 kcal diet. Your needs may be higher or lower.
FAQs
What makes food for the gods special?
It’s a festive dessert bar made with prunes or dates and walnuts, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year in the Philippines.
Can I substitute prunes with dates?
Yes. Dates work very well as a substitute, adding natural sweetness and a soft, chewy texture.
How do I store food for the gods?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use half brown sugar and half coconut sugar for a lighter sweetness.
Community Reviews
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4.6
10 ratings
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Share your experience and help others.
KitchenLearner
· 22 Aug 2025First time baking bars and this was easy to follow. They turned out perfect.
TitaNena
· 21 Jul 2025This reminds me of the Food for the Gods we used to get from bakeries in the Philippines. Nostalgic and delicious!
CarloBakes
· 20 May 2025Texture was spot on with just the right crunch from the walnuts. A new family favorite!
SweetToothLani
· 19 Apr 2025Baked these for a potluck and they were gone in minutes. Everyone kept asking for the recipe.
BakeWithJoy
· 18 Jan 2025I tried this with pecans instead of walnuts and it was just as delicious. Such a versatile recipe!
JennyTheBaker
· 17 Sept 2024So easy and so yummy! My kids devoured it. Thank you for this treat.
GlennManila
· 16 Aug 2024The recipe is good but a bit too sweet for my taste. Next time I’ll reduce the brown sugar slightly.
RheaCooks
· 15 May 2024Used dates instead of prunes and it still came out amazing. Will definitely make again!
PinoyHomeBaker
· 14 Feb 2024Perfect for gifting during the holidays. I added a pinch of cinnamon and it turned out great!
MariaLuz88
· 13 Dec 2023This brought back so many memories of Christmas with my lola! The prunes make it extra chewy and delicious.
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