Aunt Lucy'S Mud Hens
A rich, nutty dessert with a buttery base topped with a sweet brown sugar meringue, perfect for sharing in squares at family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, vanilla, and salt together until smooth.
- Spread the batter very thinly in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the batter.
- Beat the reserved egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add brown sugar to the beaten egg whites and continue to beat until glossy.
- Spread the meringue mixture over the nuts and batter in the pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cut into 2-inch squares while hot and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the batter. You can also substitute walnuts or pecans for the chopped nuts based on your preference. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating for better volume. If you want a chocolate twist, fold in some cocoa powder into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Lucy's Mud Hens warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful afternoon treat, enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea. Browse more American recipes for additional dessert ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mud Hens in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, warm in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lucy'S Mud Hens contains roughly 105 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy Aunt Lucy's Mud Hens without compromising flavor.
What can I use instead of nuts?
If you need a nut-free option, you can omit the nuts altogether or replace them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can also add a delightful chewiness to the texture without the use of nuts.
How should I cut the Mud Hens for serving?
For best results, cut the Mud Hens into 2-inch squares while they are still warm. This helps to maintain the texture of the meringue and makes it easier to cut. Using a sharp knife dipped in warm water can help achieve clean cuts without sticking.
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).