Raspberry Meringue Squares* * * * *
Sweet and tangy raspberry meringue squares feature a crisp cookie base topped with raspberry jam and airy meringue, perfect for dessert lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, sift together 2 1/2 cups of flour and 2 1/2 cups of sugar.
- Add 1 cup of softened butter and 2 egg yolks to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined to form a dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and spread 3/4 cup of raspberry jam evenly over the baked crust.
- In a clean bowl, beat 4 egg whites until stiff peaks form, gradually adding 1/2 cup of sugar.
- Spread the meringue over the raspberry jam layer, sealing the edges.
- Return the assembled squares to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the meringue is crisp and lightly browned.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease before whipping the egg whites. If fresh raspberries are available, consider using them instead of jam for a fresher taste. You can also substitute the raspberry jam with other fruit jams like strawberry or apricot for different flavors. For a nutty twist, try adding chopped nuts to the crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Raspberry Meringue Squares chilled, garnished with fresh raspberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. They pair well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside a refreshing Blushing Pink Soda.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raspberry Meringue Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature before serving; the meringue may lose some crispness if reheated in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raspberry Meringue Squares* * * * * contains roughly 1159 calories, with 44g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 12g 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 a different type of fruit jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam is traditional, you can easily substitute it with other fruit jams like strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the jam is of good quality to enhance the overall taste of the meringue squares.
What can I do if my meringue doesn't reach stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn't reaching stiff peaks, ensure that there is no fat or yolk in the egg whites and that your mixing bowl is completely clean. If necessary, add a pinch of cream of tartar to help stabilize the meringue. Be patient while beating; it can take time to achieve the right consistency.
How can I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To prevent weeping, make sure to bake the meringue until it is fully set and crisp on the outside. Adding cornstarch to the sugar can also help stabilize the meringue. Additionally, serve the squares soon after they cool to minimize moisture absorption, which can cause the meringue to weep.
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).