Carolina Chew Cakes
Carolina Chew Cakes are rich, moist squares with a nutty flavor, perfect for dessert or tea time. They appeal to those who enjoy sweet, nutty baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, beating well after each addition.
- Blend in self-rising flour, vanilla, and chopped pecans.
- Spoon batter into a well-greased and lightly floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 300°F for 45 minutes.
- Cool the cake and dust with powdered sugar.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure that your margarine is softened to room temperature, as this helps create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with brown sugar. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt for every cup used. Chopped walnuts can easily replace pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carolina Chew Cakes as a delightful afternoon snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect addition to a brunch table. For added flair, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside slices of fresh fruit, which can complement the sweetness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Carolina Chew Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolina Chew Cakes contains roughly 186 calories, with 2g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 butter instead of margarine in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute butter for margarine in equal amounts. Just make sure it's softened to achieve the right texture when creaming with the brown sugar. This will add a richer flavor to the cakes.
What can I do if I don't have brown sugar?
If you're out of brown sugar, you can make a quick substitute by mixing white granulated sugar with molasses. For every cup of brown sugar needed, combine 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses. This will mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar in your cakes.
Can I freeze Carolina Chew Cakes?
Yes, you can freeze Carolina Chew Cakes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
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).