Tennessee Treats
Tennessee Treats are rich, sweet squares packed with brown sugar, dried fruits, and walnuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix brown sugar and eggs.
- Add honey and stir until combined.
- Dissolve baking powder in boiling water and add to the mixture.
- Add water to the mixing bowl.
- Combine flour, cinnamon, allspice, and ground cloves, then stir into the mixture.
- Add raisins, chopped dates, and walnut pieces, then stir well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8 x 12-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out nearly dry, the treats are done.
- Cut into squares while warm and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you're out of honey, maple syrup makes a suitable substitute. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Sifting the flour with the spices can help prevent clumping and ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Tennessee Treats are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the Tennessee Treats to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For a warm treat, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Treats contains roughly 280 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 693mg per serving (30% 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 dried fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute raisins and dates with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or figs. Just ensure any larger pieces are chopped to maintain even distribution in the batter.
What should I do if the batter seems too thick?
If your batter appears too thick, gradually add a tablespoon of milk or water to achieve a smoother consistency. This can help ensure the treats bake evenly without becoming too dry.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.
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).