Butter Chews
Butter Chews are rich, chewy squares with a delicious combination of brown sugar, nuts, and coconut, making them perfect for sweet cravings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugar together.
- Blend in the flour until well combined.
- Pat the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Beat egg whites until stiff, but not dry, and set aside.
- Beat egg yolks until thick and lemon-colored.
- Stir in brown sugar, chopped nuts, and coconut.
- Gently fold in the beaten egg whites.
- Spread the mixture over the baked base.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cool completely, then dust with confectioners' sugar and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar in place of granulated sugar in the butter mixture. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can omit the chopped nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Make sure the butter is truly soft for easy creaming; microwave it briefly if necessary, but avoid melting it completely. For a fun twist, you can add chocolate chips or swap the nuts for dried fruit.
Serving Suggestions
These butter chews are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive touch, serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also enjoy them alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat, making them a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the butter chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Chews contains roughly 274 calories, with 3g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 margarine instead of butter?
While you can substitute margarine for butter, it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Butter adds richness that margarine may not replicate fully. If using margarine, choose a stick variety for best results, and ensure it’s well softened to cream properly with the sugar.
How do I know when the butter chews are done baking?
The butter chews are done when the top is golden and slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-baking, which can make them dry.
Can I freeze butter chews?
Yes, butter chews can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven before serving.
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).