Memere Cherry Squares
Memere Cherry Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery, crumbly base topped with sweet cherry pie filling. The addition of almond and vanilla extracts enhances the flavor, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in almond extract and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add flour and mix until combined.
- Spread 3/4 of the batter evenly in a greased baking pan.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the batter in the pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter on top of the cherry filling.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're short on almond extract, you can substitute with an equal amount of vanilla extract. To make the squares a bit more vibrant, add a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. Remember to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
These Memere Cherry Squares make a delightful dessert on their own, but they can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair well with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside Lemon Jello Cake for a colorful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Memere Cherry Squares contains roughly 223 calories, with 2g protein, 27g 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 a different fruit filling instead of cherry?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or even peach filling for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the filling is similarly sweet and thick to maintain the texture of the squares.
What can I do if the batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it up. Just mix it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This will help the batter spread more easily over the cherry filling.
Can I freeze these cherry squares?
Yes, you can freeze the cherry squares! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).