Simple Cherry Squares
Sweet cherry squares feature a buttery crust topped with cherry pie filling and a touch of vanilla, making them a delightful treat for dessert lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and margarine at high speed until smooth.
- Add 1 egg at a time to the mixture at medium speed.
- Add vanilla, then flour, and mix well.
- Spread the batter into an ungreased 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan.
- Mark into 2-inch squares on the surface of the batter.
- Spoon 1 to 2 cherries from the pie filling into the center of each square.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until light golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then cut into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want to experiment, try substituting the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple. To enhance the texture, add a teaspoon of baking powder to the dry ingredients. This recipe is adaptable and can easily be made gluten-free by substituting with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry squares are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. For a fun twist, drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cherry 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 the squares in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until just warmed through. This keeps them moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Cherry Squares contains roughly 158 calories, with 1g protein, 10g 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 cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Pitting and halving fresh cherries will give a lovely natural flavor. You might want to add a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken the mixture if using fresh fruit to mimic the consistency of pie filling.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the cherry squares dairy-free, simply substitute margarine with a dairy-free spread or coconut oil. Ensure that the pie filling you choose is also dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat while adhering to dietary preferences.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. Be cautious not to add too much at once, as you want to maintain the batter's consistency for even baking. This ensures a tender and moist outcome.
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).