Devil'S Food Squares
Devil's Food Squares are rich, chocolatey dessert bars with a moist texture and deep cocoa flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine, cocoa, and boiling water and bring to boiling point.
- Pour the hot mixture over sifted flour and sugar, and mix well.
- Add buttermilk, soda, cinnamon, eggs, salt, and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 12 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened dark cocoa instead of regular cocoa powder. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid clumps in your batter, ensuring a smooth texture for the Devil's Food Squares.
Serving Suggestions
These Devil's Food Squares are delicious on their own, but consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a perfect snack for afternoon gatherings. Try them alongside Apple Prune Coffee Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat that’s almost like fresh out of the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Devil'S Food Squares contains roughly 1533 calories, with 18g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1537mg per serving (67% 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 a different type of fat instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Each option will slightly alter the flavor, with butter offering a richer taste and coconut oil adding a hint of sweetness.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a little more boiling water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it may affect the final texture of your squares.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results, as it helps mimic the texture of wheat flour in baked goods.
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).