Annie Kate Squares(Chess Pie Cookies)
An indulgent combination of gooey, nut-studded cookie squares with a caramel-like flavor, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and serving at gatherings or as a treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a heavy skillet.
- Add brown sugar and stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved and makes bubbles. Remove from heat and cool to lukewarm.
- Sift flour with baking powder and salt.
- Stir eggs, one at a time, into the sugar mixture; mix well.
- Add sifted flour mixture and blend well.
- Stir in chopped nuts and vanilla.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
- The cookies will puff during baking but sink down as they cool.
- Once cooled, cut into squares; the inside will be rather gooey.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to make these squares gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Adding a touch of cocoa powder can give a chocolate twist. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved to achieve the desired gooey texture. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for a varied crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Annie Kate Squares can be served as a delightful dessert on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. They are perfect for gatherings and can accompany coffee or tea. For a special treat, try serving them alongside February Coconut Drops for a varied dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, let the squares cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a single layer, then transferring them to a freezer bag. To enjoy them warm, reheat individual squares in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Annie Kate Squares(Chess Pie Cookies) contains roughly 263 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
While brown sugar gives these squares a distinct flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with coconut sugar or a granulated sugar alternative. Keep in mind that using different sweeteners may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the liquids accordingly to maintain consistency.
How can I tell when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when they are puffed up and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake, as they will continue to set as they cool, resulting in a gooey center that’s characteristic of this recipe.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and make the squares even more indulgent. Stir in about a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips after mixing in the nuts. This addition will create a delightful contrast to the gooey texture of the squares.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).