Leona'S Chewies
Chewy, nutty squares with caramelized brown sugar and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet tooths and gatherings alike with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the box of light brown sugar in the top of a double boiler with simmering water.
- Mix together the eggs, flour, baking powder, and vanilla, then stir into the brown sugar.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Pour into a well-greased pan and bake at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cut into squares while warm.
- Let cool before removing from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you're short on pecans, walnuts or almonds can serve as great substitutes. Make sure to properly grease your pan to prevent sticking. For added texture, incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits. This recipe is also a wonderful base for variations, similar to the Oatmeal Piemocha Nut Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Leona's Chewies as a delightful dessert after meals or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a unique twist, serve alongside the Summertime Choco-Cream Tart for a delicious dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the chewies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they’re soft and slightly warm again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leona'S Chewies contains roughly 968 calories, with 19g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 737mg per serving (32% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor to the chewies. Just be sure to chop them as directed for even distribution throughout the batter.
What should I do if my chewies are too dry?
If your chewies turn out dry, next time consider reducing the baking time slightly. Baking times can vary based on oven calibration and pan size. Also, ensure you're measuring your flour correctly to avoid overpacking, which can lead to dryness.
Can I make these chewies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Leona's Chewies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain the texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).