*Quick Fruit Squares
Quick Fruit Squares are a delightful dessert featuring a crumbly crust, sweet fruit filling, and a cinnamon-sugar topping, perfect for a quick, fruity treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix margarine with beaten egg; add vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients, using a fork.
- Mix well, but leave crumbly.
- Divide batter into 2 portions.
- Using a 9 x 12-inch pan, place half of the batter on the bottom; spread evenly.
- Pour fruit filling over batter.
- Spread remaining batter on top.
- Sprinkle top of batter with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, substitute butter for margarine. If you prefer a different texture, consider adding oats to the crumb mixture. Using fresh fruit instead of canned filling can enhance the taste, but be sure to adjust sweetness accordingly. For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping. This recipe is versatile enough to pair with other desserts like 10X Sugar Cookies for a delightful spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Quick Fruit Squares warm or at room temperature, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They make an excellent dessert for gatherings or as a sweet snack. Pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon treat or brunch. Explore more American recipes for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of *Quick Fruit Squares contains roughly 496 calories, with 11g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of fruit filling?
Absolutely! This recipe is flexible, allowing you to use any fruit filling you enjoy, such as cherry, peach, or blueberry. Just keep in mind that different fillings may require slight adjustments in sweetness or baking time, so taste as you go.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still turn out delicious!
Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze Quick Fruit Squares! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. 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).