Black Raspberry Squares
Black Raspberry Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery crust layered with sweet raspberry filling, perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, margarine, sugar, and baking powder together.
- Beat egg yolks, vanilla, and milk together.
- Add yolk mixture to the flour mixture and mix well.
- Let the dough stand in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Roll two-thirds of the chilled dough out and lay on a greased cookie sheet.
- Spread 1 1/2 to 2 cans of black raspberry or blackberry filling on top of the dough.
- Cut remaining dough into strips and crisscross them over the filling.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure your margarine is cold when mixing with the dry ingredients. If you don't have black raspberry filling, a homemade mixture of blackberries and sugar can work well as a substitute. Consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. For an added twist, try incorporating some lemon zest into the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. They also go well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack. For a complementary dish, consider serving alongside Quick 'N Easy Cheese Muffins for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Black Raspberry Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Raspberry Squares contains roughly 197 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 fresh black raspberries instead of filling?
Yes, you can use fresh black raspberries! Simply mash them with a bit of sugar to create a spreadable filling. Keep in mind that the moisture content might be higher, so adjust the baking time if needed to ensure the crust is fully cooked.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Make sure to keep your work surface floured while rolling it out to prevent sticking. Chill the dough longer if necessary for better handling.
How can I make these squares more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider dusting the cooled squares with powdered sugar before serving. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the top. Adding fresh berries on the side can provide a colorful contrast and make for an attractive dessert display.
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).