Cherry Cake Squares
Sweet cherry pie filling is layered into buttery, lemon-flavored cake squares, creating a delightful treat perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together in a bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in lemon extract.
- Gradually add flour, mixing well after each addition.
- Grease and flour a jelly roll pan.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan and mark off squares on the surface.
- Place 1 tablespoon of cherry pie filling in the center of each square.
- Bake at 325°F for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of salt to the dough. If you don't have lemon extract, vanilla extract can be a good substitute. Make sure to spread the dough evenly in the pan for uniform baking. You can also try adding a sprinkle of almond extract for a unique twist, reminiscent of flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Cake Squares are delightful as a dessert for afternoon tea or as a sweet snack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Try serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect mid-day indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover Cherry Cake Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cake Squares contains roughly 321 calories, with 3g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you will need to cook them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a filling consistency. This will enhance the flavor and freshness of the cake squares.
What can I use instead of butter if I want a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil in equal amounts. This will help maintain the moisture and texture of the cake while making it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
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).