Preheat oven to 350F. Grease a 9x9 inch pan then line with parchment paper with a slight overhang on each side.
Place butter, brown sugar and maple syrup in a large mixing bowl. Stir until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each addition is incorporated.
Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt directly into the batter. Fold just until combined.
Add walnuts (reserve about half a cup for the topping) and dates. Stir until evenly blended.
Transfer batter into prepared pan and spread out evenly. The batter will be sticky.
Top with walnuts and gently press down so the nuts sink ever so slightly into the batter.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares and enjoy!
