Fruited Caramel Squares
Fruited Caramel Squares combine tender batter with sweet fruit and nuts, topped with caramelized sugar, creating a rich, chewy dessert perfect for sharing and satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, and mix well.
- Drain the fruit cocktail and fold it into the batter along with the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Combine melted butter and white sugar to make a caramel topping, then pour over the batter.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using coconut oil instead of shortening. If you don’t have fruit cocktail, you can substitute with a mix of diced fresh fruits like peaches, pears, and grapes. Ensure to drain the fruit well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Remember to check doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack. They also make a great dessert alongside a refreshing Blueberry Salad(Congealed) for a colorful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fruited Caramel Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. This will keep the caramel soft and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruited Caramel Squares contains roughly 501 calories, with 4g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1284mg per serving (56% 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 frozen fruit instead of fruit cocktail?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the batter. This prevents excess moisture, which could affect the texture of your squares.
What can I substitute for nuts if I have allergies?
If you have nut allergies, you can simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the allergens.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based shortening. The caramel topping can be made with coconut oil and coconut sugar for a vegan-friendly option.
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).