Linda Padula'S Pecan Pie Squares
Linda Padula's Pecan Pie Squares offer a delightful combination of buttery crust, sweet condensed milk filling, and crunchy almond brickle chips, perfect for dessert lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (325°F for glass dish).
- In a medium bowl, combine sifted flour and confectioners sugar.
- Cut in cold margarine or butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, beat the Eagle Brand condensed milk, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir in the almond brickle chips (and pecans if desired).
- Spread the filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars.
- Store covered in a container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have almond brickle chips, you can substitute with toffee bits or chocolate chips. Ensure your butter is cold, as this helps achieve a flaky crust. For added texture, mix in some chopped pecans with the filling. Make sure to sift the flour and confectioners sugar for a smoother result.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan pie squares are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a great dessert option for potlucks or family gatherings. Consider serving alongside coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat. For a fun twist, try them with a drizzle of Butter Barbecue Sauce for a unique flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the pecan pie squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda Padula'S Pecan Pie Squares contains roughly 214 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 15g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds depending on your preference. Chopped nuts can also be mixed into the filling for added crunch. Just be sure to adjust the amount to maintain the right consistency in the squares.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The pecan pie squares are done when the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, these squares can be made ahead of time! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature. If you want to make them even earlier, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw them completely before serving for the best texture.
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).