Cherry Crisscross Square
Cherry Crisscross Square offers a delightful combination of sweet cherry filling and a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crust. Its crisp topping and vibrant cherry flavor make it a perfect dessert for gatherings or a cozy treat, appealing to fruit lovers and those craving a nostalgic, homemade baked good.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and oleo; add salt, cinnamon, and flour.
- Work the mixture together as for pie dough pastry.
- Add sour cream mixed with baking soda and then incorporate egg yolks.
- Make a soft dough from the mixture.
- Spread the dough in the bottom of a cookie sheet pan, leaving enough dough for the crisscross topping.
- Brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Ensure your oleo is softened for easier mixing. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, but be cautious not to overwork it to keep the texture light. This recipe is adaptable for adding nuts or other fruits.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of Cheesy Apple Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry Crisscross Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Crisscross Square contains roughly 129 calories, with 6g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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 frozen cherries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the dough. This will help maintain the texture and prevent the squares from becoming soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The results will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the cookie sheet.
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).