Chinese Crunch
A sweet, nutty treat with dates and walnuts, featuring a crispy crust and soft interior, perfect for dessert or snack lovers seeking a delightful chew.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar to beaten eggs and mix well.
- Add flour and baking powder to the egg mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in chopped dates, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch pan.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool completely and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting half of the sugar with brown sugar, which will give a richer taste. You can also use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different texture. If you want to enhance the sweetness further, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Make sure to chop the dates finely for even distribution in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy them as a sweet addition to a Chinese Crunch Salad, adding a unique crunch and sweetness to the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chinese Crunch squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last for a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, which enhances the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Crunch contains roughly 131 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the Chinese Crunch, making it a versatile recipe.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
You can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This is a great vegan alternative that binds the ingredients well.
How can I tell when the Chinese Crunch is done baking?
The Chinese Crunch is ready when it turns a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it after the 25-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
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).