Reunion Squares
Reunion Squares are rich, layered dessert bars combining chocolate, caramel, and walnuts with a moist cake base, perfect for sharing at gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the caramels with 1/3 cup of evaporated milk until smooth.
- Mix the cake mix with the remaining evaporated milk, butter, and chopped walnuts to form a batter.
- Spread half of the cake mixture evenly in a buttered and floured 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot cake layer.
- Spread the caramel mixture evenly over the chocolate chips.
- Top with the remaining cake mixture and return to the oven.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 15 to 18 minutes.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds work well as substitutes. Make sure to butter and flour the pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. If you want a quicker option, try using a pre-made caramel sauce instead of melting caramels on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Reunion Squares are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Mama Clayton'S Divinity Candy for a sweet treat platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Reunion Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds, or place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through. This will help maintain their gooey texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reunion Squares contains roughly 340 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 28g 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 type of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a classic chocolate or even a vanilla cake mix. Just be aware that this will alter the flavor profile slightly, but it can still yield delicious results.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with regular milk or a mixture of milk and cream in a 2:1 ratio. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk can also work well, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when the top is set and lightly golden. You can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they can dry out quickly.
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).