This scrumptious date and lemon slice is a classic family favourite that was shared with us by SAS community member, Bev Malzard. 

Simple and inexpensive, this homemade slice includes a marvellous combination of shredded coconut, dates and lemon zest, layered in a tangy lemon icing. 

Even if you don’t enjoy eating dates, you’ll be surprised how much you love this recipe! Pour a cuppa and dig in! 

Ingredients

• 1 cup self-raising flour 
• 1 cup shredded coconut, plus extra 1/4 cup to serve
• 1 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup caster sugar 
• 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest 
• 125g butter, melted 
• 1 egg, lightly beaten 

Lemon icing

• 3/4 cup icing sugar 
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 15g butter, melted

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Lightly grease an 18 x 28cm slice pan. Line base and sides with baking paper, extending sides 2cm above pan edge. 
3. Sift flour into a large bowl. Stir through coconut, dates, sugar and zest. 
4. Blend in butter and egg, combining well. 
5. Spread mixture into prepared pan. 
6. Bake for 30 minutes or until firm and golden. Cool in pan. 
7. Meanwhile, for the icing, in a bowl combine icing sugar, lemon juice and butter, stirring until smooth. 
8. Spread over cooled slice, sprinkle with extra coconut.