Black Walnut Squares
Black Walnut Squares are rich, nutty bars with a moist texture, featuring deep flavors of black walnuts and sweet cream cheese frosting, perfect for gatherings or teatime treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, oil, and hot water in a bowl.
- Let the mixture cool before proceeding.
- Add eggs, flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla to the cooled mixture; stir until well blended.
- Pour batter onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, let cool, then spread with cream cheese frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Black Walnut Squares, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter. This brings out their natural oils and deepens their taste. If you don't have black walnuts, English walnuts can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor will be milder. Ensure the batter is well mixed to avoid any dry pockets of flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious Black Walnut Squares as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a special treat, top with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with extra walnuts. You can also enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Black Walnut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Walnut Squares contains roughly 694 calories, with 4g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 942mg per serving (41% 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 nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute black walnuts with other types of nuts like pecans or almonds. Keep in mind that different nuts will impart varying flavors and textures to the squares, so choose one that complements your taste preference.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a little more hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the final texture of your Black Walnut Squares.
Can I freeze Black Walnut Squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up slightly in the microwave.
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).