Cherry Walnut Squares
Chewy cherry walnut squares combine sweet brown sugar, crunchy walnuts, and tart cherries in a tender bar cookie, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8-inch square pan.
- Stir together the egg, brown sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Quickly stir in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the coarsely chopped walnuts and cherries.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 18 to 20 minutes, until cookies are soft in the center.
- Cool in the pan before cutting into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can serve as great substitutes. For a chewier texture, try using light brown sugar instead of dark. Make sure to chop the walnuts coarsely to maintain a good texture in the squares. If you want to add a fruity twist, fold in some dried cherries or cranberries.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Walnut Squares are delicious on their own but can be enhanced by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. Browse more American recipes for additional dessert ideas!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Walnut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Walnut Squares contains roughly 58 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% 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 dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! However, make sure to pit and chop them before adding to the batter. Fresh cherries will add moisture, so you may want to reduce the egg slightly to maintain the right consistency. Keep an eye on the baking time, as fresh fruit may alter it slightly.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make Cherry Walnut Squares gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the right texture. This will keep the squares moist and delicious while accommodating gluten-free diets.
What can I serve alongside these squares?
These squares are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation. Pair them with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
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).