Cherry Date Squares
Sweet cherry and date squares feature rich flavors with a tender crumb, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, nutty treats with a hint of nostalgia.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening and blend it with the brown sugar.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder; then add to the shortening and egg mixture.
- Stir in the chopped dates, maraschino cherries, and chopped nutmeats.
- Spread the dough evenly on a large cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is browned.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Chopping the dates and cherries finely ensures they distribute evenly throughout the squares, making every bite delightful.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Date Squares are perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack with your afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a delightful twist, serve alongside Oven-Fried Sweet Potatoes for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Date Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 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 as a delicious snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Date Squares contains roughly 452 calories, with 4g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 479mg 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 other dried fruits instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute chopped dried apricots, figs, or raisins for dates. However, keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. Experimenting with different fruits can add a unique twist to your Cherry Date Squares.
What can I use if I don't have maraschino cherries?
If maraschino cherries aren't available, you can use fresh or frozen cherries, chopped and pitted. Dried cherries are also a great option, just be mindful of their sweetness and adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.
How can I make these squares more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding nuts such as walnuts or almonds for healthy fats and protein. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber without sacrificing too much in 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).