Dorothy'S Easy Time Squares
Sweet and tangy cherry-filled squares with a buttery crust, perfect for dessert or tea time, appealing to those who love fruity, nostalgic treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and gradually add the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in lemon juice, then gradually incorporate the flour until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased jellyroll pan and spread evenly.
- Mark the batter into 24 squares and place some cherry pie filling in each square.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool. Once cooled, sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the butter with applesauce. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. You can also experiment with other pie fillings such as blueberry or peach for a different twist, similar to variations found in Mississippi Mud Texas Sheet Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These time squares make a delightful dessert on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside savory dishes like Spam-N-Macaroni Casserole as a contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover time squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you wish to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S Easy Time Squares contains roughly 210 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 pie filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is traditional, feel free to substitute with your favorite fruit filling such as blueberry, apple, or even lemon curd for a zesty twist. The key is to ensure the filling is not too runny, so it holds its shape in the batter.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If you find your batter is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. Mix it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. However, be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it could affect the final texture of the squares.
How can I make these squares more festive?
To make your time squares more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of colored sugar or holiday-themed sprinkles on top before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled squares or add a layer of cream cheese frosting to elevate the presentation, making them perfect for parties.
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).