Easy Holiday Squares
Sweet and tangy holiday squares featuring a buttery crust, cherry filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for festive gatherings and dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gradually add sugar to butter in a large bowl and cream on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- At low speed, add flour and lemon juice to the mixture.
- Pour batter into a greased jelly roll pan.
- Mark off 20 squares on the batter.
- Place a heaping teaspoonful of pie filling in the center of each square.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then sift confectioners' sugar on top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. You can substitute half of the sugar with honey for a different flavor or use margarine instead of butter. If you prefer a different fruit, opt for a can of peach or blueberry pie filling. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Holiday Squares are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great addition to brunch or holiday gatherings. For a fun twist, try serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing treat. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Holiday Squares contains roughly 307 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 22g 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 fresh fruit instead of pie filling?
While the recipe is designed for canned pie filling, you can use fresh fruit by cooking it down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a thick filling. This will give you a fresher flavor and is perfect for summer gatherings.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper texture. The baking time may remain the same, but keep an eye on the squares as they bake.
What can I do if my squares are too dry?
If your squares turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking. To prevent this next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier. If they are already baked, consider serving them with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and enhance flavor.
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).