Plaza Park Squares
Sweet and nutty Plaza Park Squares feature buttery cake base and chopped pecans, perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the butter cake mix, egg, melted butter, and chopped pecans by hand in a bowl.
- Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9 x 11 inch pan.
- Bake as desired or chill until set, if not baking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Plaza Park Squares, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Make sure to melt the butter completely before mixing to ensure a smooth batter. For an even richer taste, you can also fold in mini chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delicious on their own, but they can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat. They also pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a fun twist, serve them with a side of Cool Summer Dip for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Plaza Park Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plaza Park Squares contains roughly 742 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 71g 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 cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with other cake mixes like yellow or chocolate cake mixes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, but it’s a great way to customize your Plaza Park Squares to your taste.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
If you choose to bake the squares, they are done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you're chilling instead of baking, ensure they are set and firm before cutting into squares.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! Plaza Park Squares can be made a day in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container. They actually taste better after resting, as the flavors have time to meld together, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
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).