Easy Time Holiday Squares
Easy Time Holiday Squares are delightful layered bars featuring a buttery batter topped with sweet cherry pie filling, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for festive gatherings or casual treats, they combine tangy cherry flavor with a tender, sweet crumb, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar to butter in a mixing bowl and cream well until light and fluffy.
- At medium speed, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add sifted flour and lemon extract to the mixture and blend well.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch cookie sheet.
- Mark off into 20 squares and carefully make holes in each with a teaspoon.
- Place a heaping tablespoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each square.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes.
- While warm, sift powdered sugar over the squares and cut into 20 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. If you don’t have lemon extract, fresh lemon juice or a splash of vanilla can be substituted for a different flavor profile. For a twist, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. This recipe can be adapted for different fruit fillings, like blueberry or peach, for variety.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve alongside other holiday desserts like Flowerpot Fruitcake or Yum Yum Delight during celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Time Holiday Squares contains roughly 307 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% 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 fruit filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling adds a lovely tartness, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings such as blueberry, apple, or even a combination of berries for a different taste. Just ensure the consistency is similar to maintain the structure of the squares.
What if I don't have a 15 x 10 inch cookie sheet?
If you don’t have the specified size, you can use a larger or smaller pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly. A smaller pan will yield thicker squares and may need a bit more time in the oven, while a larger one will create thinner squares that may bake faster.
Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, these squares freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then cut into squares and place in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
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).