California Walnut Squares
Chewy and nutty Walnut Squares feature a buttery crust topped with a rich brown sugar and coconut layer, finished with a sweet vanilla frosting—perfect for dessert lovers seeking a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup butter, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar.
- Pat into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Mix together 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup coconut, 1 cup broken walnuts, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1 teaspoon vanilla; pour over crust.
- Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until top is crusty.
- Cool completely.
- Beat together 3 cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons orange juice, and the remaining ingredients for frosting, then frost bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with coconut oil. If you want to reduce sugar, you can replace some of the brown sugar with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to finely chop the walnuts for a better texture and distribution throughout the squares. Additionally, if you prefer a different nut, pecans work well and can be used in place of walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful served as a dessert alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Pink Lemonade for a refreshing contrast. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat. Garnish with a sprinkle of coconut or chopped walnuts for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store the California Walnut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. To enjoy them warm, gently reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Walnut Squares contains roughly 247 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the California Walnut Squares a day in advance. Once they are fully cooled, simply cover them with plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
To make these squares egg-free, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Mix 1 tablespoon of either with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. This will act as a binding agent similar to eggs, while still maintaining the texture of the squares.
How do I cut the squares neatly?
To cut the California Walnut Squares neatly, ensure they are completely cooled before slicing. Use a sharp knife and warm it slightly under hot water for clean cuts. Wipe the knife between cuts to prevent sticking, which will help maintain the integrity of each square.
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).