Thoroughly mix together dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Put the dates along with 1/2 cup of the water in a food processor and process until the dates are chopped and partly dissolved. Pour the food processor contents and the remaining water and other wet ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk together well.

Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir well to combine.

Pour into an oiled 9-inch square (or similar-sized) baking pan and bake in a 350º F oven 30 minutes or until the bars test done.

Cool before cutting into 12 or 16 squares.

Variation: Add 1/2 cup carob chips or drizzle melted carob chips over the top when the bars come out of the oven.