Nutty Cherry Squares
Nutty Cherry Squares combine crunchy oats, nuts, and a sweet cherry filling, topped with marshmallows for a delightful treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or family dessert time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, oats, sugar, chopped nuts, baking soda, and melted margarine in a large bowl.
- Work mixture into crumbs and reserve 1 1/2 cups for topping.
- Press the remaining crumbs into the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 12 minutes.
- Remove from oven and spoon cherry pie filling over the hot crust.
- Sprinkle with miniature marshmallows.
- Top with the reserved crumbs.
- Return to oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until top crumbs are lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool before cutting into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try using walnuts instead of pecans or add a teaspoon of almond extract to the mixture. If you want to make it a bit healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. To add a bit of tartness, consider mixing in some fresh or frozen cherries along with the cherry pie filling. This recipe also works well with blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nutty Cherry Squares as a delightful dessert at gatherings or enjoy them as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Quick Fruit Punch for a refreshing drink option. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. These squares also make a great addition to potlucks or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Nutty Cherry Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a low oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Cherry Squares contains roughly 716 calories, with 11g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg 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 make these Nutty Cherry Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Nutty Cherry Squares a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container. If desired, you can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Just melt the butter or coconut oil before mixing it with the dry ingredients to ensure a smooth texture.
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings such as blueberry, apple, or peach. Each will give your squares a unique flavor, making them versatile for different occasions. Just ensure that the filling is thick enough to hold its shape.
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).