Fruit Squares
Fruit squares are a delightful dessert combining a buttery base with sweet pie filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With a rich margarine blend and a hint of vanilla, these squares are sure to please family and friends at gatherings or as a sweet treat any day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar, then add vanilla.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Stir in flour and mix until combined.
- Spread 3/4 of the batter in a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Cover with pie filling and add the rest of the batter on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes.
- When cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. You can use any pie filling you prefer, such as cherry or blueberry, to customize the taste. If you want a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts to the batter. Make sure to grease the pan well to prevent sticking, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit squares are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, try serving them alongside the Chocolate-Covered Cherry Cookies during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Squares contains roughly 527 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 fresh fruit instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but you'll need to cook it down with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch to create a filling similar to pie filling. This will enhance the flavor and ensure the fruit cooks properly while baking.
What can I do if my batter seems too thick?
If your batter is too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up a bit. Mix well until you reach your desired consistency. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as this could affect the final texture.
Can I make these fruit squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the fruit squares a day in advance. Just allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They taste great the next day, and the flavors have more time to meld together.
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).