Raspberry Strawberry Cake Squares
Layers of oatmeal crust topped with raspberry pie filling and a crunchy walnut topping create a sweet, fruity dessert perfect for sharing at gatherings or family occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine oatmeal, cake mix, and 6 tablespoons of margarine.
- Mix until crumbly.
- Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
- With the remaining crumbs, add the egg and mix well.
- Press the mixture into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Spread raspberry pie filling over the crust.
- To the reserved crumbs, add the remaining margarine, chopped walnuts, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the walnut mixture over the raspberry filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can easily omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. Using quick oats helps maintain a tender texture, but old-fashioned oats can also work if you process them slightly. Be sure to press the crust firmly for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Raspberry Strawberry Cake Squares are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them at gatherings or potlucks, as they are sure to impress guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These cake squares can also be frozen; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raspberry Strawberry Cake Squares contains roughly 234 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 fresh raspberries instead of pie filling?
While fresh raspberries can be used, they won't provide the same sweetness and moisture as raspberry pie filling. If you wish to use fresh fruit, consider adding some sugar to the raspberries and cooking them down slightly to create a more similar texture and flavor to the pie filling.
What should I do if I don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan?
If you don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan, you can use two 8-inch square pans, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Alternatively, a round cake pan will also work; just check for doneness a few minutes earlier to avoid overbaking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Raspberry Strawberry Cake Squares gluten-free, simply substitute the strawberry cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Additionally, ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur with regular oats.
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).