Fruitcake Squares
Fruitcake Squares are rich, chewy treats packed with chopped nuts, candied fruit, chopped dates, and coconut, all held together with sweetened condensed milk. This festive dessert offers a delightful mix of sweetness and texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or as an indulgent snack for fruitcake lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter in a 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly over the melted butter.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, flaked coconut, chopped dates, and chopped candied fruit over the crumbs.
- Drizzle sweetened condensed milk evenly over the mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding dried cranberries or apricots for extra flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds. To enhance the texture, you can lightly toast the graham cracker crumbs before layering. Ensure the mixture is well packed in the pan for better results.
Serving Suggestions
These fruitcake squares make a delightful treat on their own but pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as part of a dessert platter featuring recipes like Overnight Brunch Eggs or Magic No-Mix Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruitcake squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. Reheat gently in the oven to refresh their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruitcake Squares contains roughly 766 calories, with 5g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any nuts you like, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces to ensure an even distribution throughout the fruitcake squares.
Is it necessary to bake the fruitcake squares?
Yes, baking helps to set the mixture and meld the flavors together. It also gives the squares a lovely golden color and a firmer texture, making them easier to cut into squares once cooled.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and using a vegan sweetened condensed milk. Just ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly to maintain the recipe's integrity.
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).