Cherry Coconut Squares
Cherry Coconut Squares are delightful dessert bars featuring a buttery crust topped with sweet cherry, coconut, and nut filling, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and 1/4 cup sugar until light; stir in 1/2 cup flour.
- Press into a greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, salt, vanilla, eggs, nuts, and coconut.
- Spread evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes.
- Cut into squares while warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you don't have nuts on hand, feel free to substitute with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. You can also try using sweetened shredded coconut for a more intense coconut flavor. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to include dried fruits or chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Coconut Squares are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. Consider serving them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a fun twist, try serving them with a side of Mock Oyster Dip for a unique flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Coconut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze these squares for up to three months. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for a while or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Coconut Squares contains roughly 236 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 798mg per serving (35% 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 fresh cherries instead of the cherry filling?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used instead of cherry filling. Just pit and chop them, and mix them into the batter. You may need to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the cherries. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will add moisture, so ensure the consistency of the batter remains balanced.
What can I substitute for coconut if I don’t like it?
If you're not a fan of coconut, you can easily substitute it with equal parts of finely chopped dried fruit, such as apricots or cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the total amount of mix-ins remains the same to maintain the structure of the squares.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Cherry Coconut Squares gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Most blends work well in this recipe, but make sure it includes xanthan gum for better texture. This way, you can still enjoy this delightful treat without gluten.
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).