Tom Thumb Squares
Sweet and chewy coconut squares with a buttery crust, perfect for a nostalgic treat or casual dessert, appealing to coconut lovers and those craving simple comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Crisco, salt, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar together.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of flour and mix well.
- Press the mixture tightly into an 8-inch pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the brown sugar with coconut sugar. If you're looking for a nuttier taste, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the mixture. Make sure to pack the crust tightly in the pan to ensure it holds together while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Tom Thumb Squares are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a great dessert option alongside Yummy Yeast Rolls for a varied spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, gently reheat in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tom Thumb Squares contains roughly 1015 calories, with 9g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 999mg per serving (43% 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 unsalted butter instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter for Crisco in this recipe. Just use the same amount, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, resulting in a richer flavor and potentially more moisture.
What can I use instead of coconut if I don’t like it?
If you dislike coconut, you can replace it with an equal amount of chopped dried fruit like apricots or raisins, or even chocolate chips for a more indulgent version.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend also contains a binding agent to maintain the texture.
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).