Mocha Squares
Mocha Squares are rich, coffee-flavored treats with crunchy peanut coating, perfect for coffee lovers and those seeking a sweet, nutty snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Take a loaf of angel food cake and rub off the brown crust.
- Slice the cake lengthwise into thirds, then cut into squares.
- Chop the salted dry roasted peanuts in a processor.
- Mix together the sugar, oleo (margarine or butter), black coffee, and vanilla to form a coating mixture.
- Roll each cake square in the sugar mixture, then in the chopped peanuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using espresso instead of regular black coffee. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute oleo with a plant-based margarine. To enhance the texture, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the coating mixture. Make sure to chop the peanuts finely for an even coating on the cake squares. Experiment with different nut toppings for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve mocha squares as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with Vivian's Wonderful Punch for a festive gathering. For added elegance, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the squares or serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These are perfect for potlucks or casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mocha squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid refrigerating them. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mocha Squares contains roughly 523 calories, with 15g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% 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 cake for this recipe?
Yes, while angel food cake is light and airy, you can substitute it with pound cake or sponge cake for a denser texture. Just note that the soaking time in the coating mixture may need to be adjusted to ensure the cake absorbs enough flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make mocha squares gluten-free, use a gluten-free angel food cake mix available in stores or make your own from scratch using gluten-free flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, like sugar and peanuts, are also certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mocha squares a day ahead of time. Just coat them in the mixture and store them in an airtight container. They taste just as delicious the next day, making them a great option for meal prep or parties.
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).