Fantasy Squares
Fantasy Squares are rich, chewy treats with coconut, vanilla, and chocolate flavors, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for parties, potlucks, or homemade gift-giving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat margarine in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular pan in the oven until melted.
- Sprinkle vanilla wafer crumbs evenly over the melted margarine.
- Sprinkle coconut and candies over the crumbs.
- Pour condensed milk over the candies.
- In a medium bowl, mix remaining ingredients except 1 cup candies.
- Stir in the remaining candies.
- Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls about 1 inch apart onto candies in the pan.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Cool squares completely before cutting.
- Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened. If you want a lighter texture, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. When layering the vanilla wafers, ensure they are finely crushed for better distribution. If pressed for time, use store-bought cookie crumbs instead of making your own. This recipe can be adapted for various taste preferences by adding nuts or dried fruits.
Serving Suggestions
These Fantasy Squares make a delightful dessert on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. For a fun twist, drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve alongside fresh fruit. They also make a great addition to potlucks and gatherings, complementing other treats like Disgustingly Delicious Brownies or Tropical Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fantasy Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fantasy Squares contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 milk instead of condensed milk?
While condensed milk provides a unique sweetness and creaminess, you can substitute it with evaporated milk mixed with a sweetener like sugar or honey. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream sweetened with maple syrup.
What can I do if my squares are too crumbly?
If your squares turn out too crumbly, it may be due to insufficient moisture. You can try adding a bit more melted margarine or even a splash of milk to the mixture before baking. If they cool and still seem crumbly, serve them as a parfait layered with ice cream or yogurt for a delicious twist.
How do I make these squares more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can mix in chocolate chips with the remaining candies or sprinkle cocoa powder into the dough mixture. Another option is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled squares for an indulgent finish. This pairs beautifully with the existing flavors and adds a rich chocolatey touch.
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).