Chocolate Nut Squares
Chocolate Nut Squares are rich, fudgy treats with chocolate and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet snack with coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add melted chocolate and melted shortening to the mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Make sure the chocolate is cooled slightly before adding it to the egg mixture to prevent scrambling. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate nut squares are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Easy Chocolate Peanut Brittle or Sinful Pudding. Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate nut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, which can extend their freshness for about a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a fudgy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Nut Squares contains roughly 181 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 586mg per serving (25% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by using your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just make sure to chop them roughly to ensure an even distribution in the batter.
What can I do if I don’t have eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed bananas for each egg. This will keep the texture moist while adding a hint of flavor.
How can I tell when the squares are done baking?
To check if the chocolate nut squares are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can make them dry.
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).