Amish Baked Oatmeal

Preheat oven to 350F. Place butter in 11/2-quart round casserole dish. Place dish in oven; heat 3 to 5 minutes until butter melts. Whisk in milk, eggs and syrup until well blended. Stir in oats, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Fold in dates. Let stand about 15 minutes. Bake, uncovered, 35 minutes (center will not be set). Cool slightly; serve with cream or milk, if desired.

Makes 6 servings.