Aunty Theresa'S "Raisin Squares"
Sweet and tangy raisin squares with a buttery crust, perfect for dessert or tea time, offering rich fruit flavors and a hint of cinnamon and lemon zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix raisins, sugar, cold water, flour, and salt in a saucepan.
- Let the mixture simmer slowly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add a lump of margarine or butter.
- Allow to cool slightly, then stir in lemon juice and grated lemon rind.
- Prepare pie crusts and spread the raisin filling between them.
- Sprinkle the top crust with a little cinnamon and sugar.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Once baked and cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you prefer a thicker filling, increase the flour to 1.5 tablespoons. You can also use golden raisins for a different taste profile. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary significantly; adjust as needed.
Serving Suggestions
These raisin squares are delightful on their own or can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Methodist Cheesecake for a dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover raisin squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunty Theresa'S "Raisin Squares" contains roughly 92 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even a mix of dried fruits. Just ensure that the total amount remains the same, and adjust the sugar if the fruits are sweeter.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative and ensure that your pie crusts are vegan-friendly. Most store-bought crusts are suitable, but check the ingredients to be sure.
What can I do if the filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out too runny, return it to the saucepan and simmer it a bit longer to thicken. You can also add a little more flour to help absorb excess liquid. Just be sure to mix it well to avoid lumps.
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).