Aunt Marjorie'S Chewy Pecan Squares
A buttery, chewy pecan square treat with caramelized brown sugar and vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy dessert break.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8-inch square pan.
- Beat the egg with vanilla, brown sugar, and salt until blended. In a separate bowl, whisk flour and baking soda.
- Quickly combine the dry mixture with the wet, then fold in chopped pecans.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake at 350°F for 18 to 20 minutes, or until soft in the center. Cool in pan, then cut into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens vary. These squares should be soft in the center but set around the edges.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy pecan squares are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Cherry Yum-Yum Pies for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes until slightly warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Marjorie'S Chewy Pecan Squares contains roughly 269 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 15g 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 use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or even chopped almonds can be substituted for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the nuts are coarsely chopped to maintain the chewy texture of the squares.
What should I do if my batter seems too dry?
If your batter appears dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to help moisten it. Mix gently to incorporate. This will ensure the squares remain chewy and moist after baking.
Can I make these squares in advance?
Yes, these pecan squares can be made a day ahead of time. After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious when served the next day.
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).