Blackberry Squares
Sweet and savory blackberry squares feature a cheesy crumb topping, perfect for snacking or dessert, with optional raspberry and strawberry jam variations for added flavor complexity.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8-inch square pan.
- Sift all dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Cut in cheese, sugar, and butter with a pastry blender until crumbly.
- Remove 3/4 cup of crumbs and set aside.
- Add milk to the remaining crumbs; stir and press into the prepared pan.
- Spread a layer of blackberry jam over the pressed crumbs.
- Sprinkle the reserved 3/4 cup crumbs on top of the jam.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more savory flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the crumb mixture. If you don't have blackberry jam, any fruit jam or preserves can work as a substitute, such as raspberry or strawberry. Ensure the butter is cold for a better crumb texture, similar to what you would use in Cheesy Drop Biscuits.
Serving Suggestions
These blackberry squares make a delightful dessert or snack. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pair with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also go well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect addition to afternoon gatherings. Browse more American recipes for other delightful snacks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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 15-20 seconds, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackberry Squares contains roughly 185 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% 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 frozen blackberries instead of jam?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but it's best to cook them down with sugar to create a jam-like consistency. Simply heat the blackberries in a saucepan until they release their juices, then add sugar to taste and simmer until thickened.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The blackberry squares are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
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).