Charleston Chews
Sweet, nutty, and caramel-flavored bars with a chewy texture, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and sharing at gatherings. A nostalgic treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat brown sugar and margarine in a pan or microwave just until melted.
- Stir in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in 1 cup of self-rising flour, then add the other cup.
- Stir until well combined.
- Add vanilla and nuts, then stir.
- Grease a square pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Ensure that the flour is well sifted to prevent clumping, and for added texture, try folding in some chocolate chips. This recipe can be adapted into bars reminiscent of the popular American recipes like Ritz Cracker Torte.
Serving Suggestions
Charleston Chews are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting treat. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside options like Lovely Lemon Cake or Apricot Oat Squares for a diverse spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover Charleston Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, simply reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, making sure not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charleston Chews contains roughly 1155 calories, with 14g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 475mg per serving (21% 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 all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for self-rising flour, but you'll need to add a teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt for every cup of all-purpose flour used. This adjustment will help mimic the leavening properties of self-rising flour and ensure your Charleston Chews rise properly.
What can I use instead of nuts if I have allergies?
If you have nut allergies, you can omit the nuts altogether or replace them with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also add a delightful chewiness while keeping the texture interesting. Ensure any substitute aligns with your dietary restrictions.
How do I know when the Charleston Chews are done baking?
The Charleston Chews are done baking when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that they will continue to set as they cool, so avoid overbaking for the best texture.
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).