Congo Squares
Congo Squares are rich, chocolatey treats with a chewy texture and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent snack. Combining brown sugar, semi-sweet chocolate morsels, and broken nuts, these bars offer a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch, appealing to all chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening in a large saucepan.
- Add brown sugar and mix well; cool slightly.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt.
- Add the flour mixture to the mixture in the saucepan; mix well.
- Add broken nuts and chocolate morsels.
- Pour into 2 greased pans (7 1/2 x 11 x 1 1/2).
- Bake at 325° to 350° for 25 to 30 minutes.
- When almost cool, cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the shortening is melted but not too hot when adding the brown sugar to prevent cooking the eggs. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour. For a nut-free version, you can omit the nuts or replace them with additional chocolate morsels. This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover nuts from your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
Congo Squares are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making for a perfect afternoon treat. Consider serving them alongside a slice of Tomato Pie(Not A Dessert) for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Congo Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. The texture remains delightful even after freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Congo Squares contains roughly 338 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 24g 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 sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a richer taste, so consider using light brown sugar for a closer match or a mix of both types for a unique flavor profile.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts or pecans are traditional choices that complement the chocolate well. However, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for a different twist. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply increase the amount of chocolate morsels used.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a 1/4 teaspoon to mimic the texture of regular flour. This way, you can enjoy these Congo Squares without any gluten concerns.
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).