English Cherubs
English Cherubs are delicious, sweet squares featuring a rich coconut and pecan topping with a buttery, brown sugar crust. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a treat, they combine the warm flavors of coconut and vanilla with a satisfying crunch, making them a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, butter, flour, and dash of salt in a medium mixing bowl.
- Mix until well combined; mixture will look dry.
- Press into the bottom of a greased 9-inch square pan.
- Beat eggs until foamy.
- Add remaining brown sugar, 1/2 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Mix well.
- Stir in coconut and pecans.
- Spread over the layer in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until top is set and lightly browned.
- Cool; cut into 1 1/2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you're out of coconut, you can substitute with chopped nuts or leave it out entirely. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing, and for a unique twist, add a dash of cinnamon for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These English Cherubs are delightful as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover English Cherubs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warm, ensuring not to overheat to keep the texture pleasant.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of English Cherubs contains roughly 83 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the base layer and fill it a day in advance. Just store the unbaked mixture in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This can help save time, especially if you're planning for a gathering.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). These options will help bind the ingredients while keeping the texture moist.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even nuts to customize the flavor. Just be mindful of the overall balance of wet and dry ingredients to maintain the right texture. This is a versatile recipe that can accommodate various tastes.
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).