Pineapple Butterscotch Squares
Pineapple Butterscotch Squares offer a delightful combination of tropical pineapple, rich butterscotch, and crunchy pecans. With a moist texture and sweet, caramel-like flavor, these squares are perfect for gatherings or a special treat for dessert lovers seeking a unique, flavorful bar.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1 cup brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar ⓘ
- 1 (20 oz.) can Dole crushed pineapple, well drained ⓘ
- 2 eggs ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla ⓘ
- 1 cup (6 oz.) butterscotch chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted ⓘ
- vegetable cooking spray ⓘ
- powdered sugar (for garnish) ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with vegetable cooking spray.
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together margarine, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add well-drained crushed pineapple, eggs, and vanilla; beat until blended.
- Gradually stir in the flour mixture, then fold in butterscotch chips and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before garnishing with powdered sugar and slicing into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds. Make sure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to prevent a soggy texture. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note that complements the butterscotch.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful as a dessert on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to potlucks or gatherings, alongside other American recipes like Chewy Chocolate Brownies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pineapple Butterscotch Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Butterscotch Squares contains roughly 506 calories, with 2g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but ensure it's finely chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture. This may slightly alter the texture, but it will provide a fresh flavor that complements the butterscotch.
What can I substitute for butterscotch chips?
If you don't have butterscotch chips, you can substitute with chocolate chips or caramel bits for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this will change the overall taste of the squares.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The Pineapple Butterscotch Squares are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
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).