Holiday Fruit Squares
Holiday Fruit Squares are sweet, fruity bars with a buttery batter and a layer of cherry, apple, or blueberry filling, perfect for festive gatherings and dessert trays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gradually add sugar to margarine and beat until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Add flour and vanilla and mix well.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan.
- With a knife, mark 20 squares on the batter.
- Place one tablespoon of filling in the center of each marked square.
- Bake at 350°F until squares spring back when touched.
- While warm, sift powdered sugar over the squares and allow to cool.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the margarine with unsalted butter. If you want to add texture, mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut. You can also use different pie fillings like peach or mixed berry for a twist. Ensure you don’t overmix once you add the flour to keep the squares light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
These Holiday Fruit Squares are delightful on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. They also make a charming addition to holiday dessert platters alongside festive treats like Santa'S Hermits.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a low oven. Sifting powdered sugar before serving can freshen them up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Fruit Squares contains roughly 233 calories, with 4g protein, 43g 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 use homemade pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade pie filling can enhance the flavor and freshness of your squares. Just ensure it's thick enough to hold its shape when placed in the center of the marked squares. Adjust the sweetness as needed since homemade fillings can vary in sweetness.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Many blends work well in baking, but check the package for specific measurements and recommendations. This substitution allows those following gluten-free diets to enjoy these delicious squares.
How can I make these squares more festive?
To make your Holiday Fruit Squares more festive, consider adding colored sprinkles on top of the powdered sugar. You can also layer different flavored fillings for a colorful presentation. Lastly, serving them on a holiday-themed platter will enhance their visual appeal.
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).