Raisin Nut Squares
Raisin Nut Squares are a delightful combination of sweet raisins and crunchy nuts, spiced with cinnamon and cloves. This comforting dessert is perfect for family gatherings or as a cozy treat with tea. The moist, cake-like texture will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook raisins with water for 15 minutes.
- Drain raisins but save 1 cup liquid.
- Add 1/2 cup shortening to the saved liquid and wait until it cools.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use plump, moist raisins; soaking them in warm water for a few minutes can help. If you’re short on shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. You can also try using whole wheat flour for added nutrition or to enhance the flavor. Adjust spices according to your preference, adding more cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Raisin Nut Squares as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a more indulgent treat, consider drizzling a simple glaze on top or serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also complement well with a side of Georgia's Tomato Soup for a savory-sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raisin Nut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 seconds, or until warm. Enjoy them warm for a delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Nut Squares contains roughly 482 calories, with 7g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chopped nuts, feel free to substitute with walnuts, pecans, or even almonds based on your preference. Each type of nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the squares, enhancing the overall taste.
How can I make these squares healthier?
To make Raisin Nut Squares healthier, consider reducing the sugar by a third or using a sugar substitute like stevia. You can also replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content. Additionally, using less shortening or swapping it for applesauce can lower the fat content.
What can I serve with Raisin Nut Squares?
These squares are delicious on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt. They also pair well with a side of fruit, like fresh berries or slices of banana, for a refreshing balance. For a cozy option, try them with hot cocoa.
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).