Italian Chews
Italian Chews are delicious, coconut and nut-flavored treats with a tender texture, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings. They are easy to make and versatile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the soft butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add sifted flour to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Pat the dough into a 13 x 2 inch pan.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Beat the egg yolks and gradually beat in the packed light brown sugar.
- Add chopped nuts and flaked coconut to the egg mixture.
- Fold in beaten stiff egg whites.
- Pour the mixture over the baked base.
- Bake for an additional 24 to 30 minutes.
- Cut into 54 squares and dust with confectioners sugar.
- Store in a tight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To make these Italian Chews even more flavorful, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with sunflower seeds. For a chewier texture, allow the batter to rest for about 30 minutes before baking. Be sure to sift the flour for a lighter consistency, which is crucial in achieving the right texture for these treats.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Italian Chews are perfect for serving at gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside your afternoon coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a rich espresso or can be enjoyed as a light dessert after a meal. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Italian Layer Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Italian Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer to keep them longer, they can be frozen. Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, and they will be as delicious as fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Chews contains roughly 1816 calories, with 68g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (136% of the Daily Value), iron (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 6g 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 substitute the flaked coconut with something else?
Yes, if you're not a fan of coconut, you can replace it with additional chopped nuts or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. Just ensure that any substitute complements the flavors of the Italian Chews.
How can I tell when the Italian Chews are done baking?
The Italian Chews are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the final baking stage to prevent overbaking, as this can alter the texture.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it's best to bake the batter fresh, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it in the pan to ensure even baking.
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).