Squirrel Bread
Squirrel Bread is a rich, nut-filled dessert with a sweet, moist texture, perfect for nut lovers and ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the butter and add 1 egg; mix well.
- Pat the mixture into a well-greased 9 x 12-inch cake pan.
- Press 1 cup chopped nuts into the mixture.
- Beat together the egg whites, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Pour this mixture over the nuts in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Cut into small squares before cooling.
- These improve with age.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider using a mix of walnuts, pecans, or almonds as your chopped nuts. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and consider using whole wheat flour for added nutrition. This recipe can also be adapted for gluten-free diets using a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Squirrel Bread makes a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy pairing. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a glass of Non-Alcoholic Egg Nog during the holidays. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert, perhaps topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Squirrel Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a few minutes until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squirrel Bread contains roughly 274 calories, with 7g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 843mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just be mindful of allergies if serving to guests. A mix of nuts can also enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
What can I do if I don't have enough eggs?
If you have only one egg on hand, you can replace the second egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana. This will help bind the ingredients while adding a slight sweetness.
How can I tell when the Squirrel Bread is done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it's ready. The top should be golden brown, and the edges may start to pull away from the pan.
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).