Venetian Squares
Venetian Squares are colorful, almond-flavored treats layered with chocolate chips and apricot preserves, perfect for festive occasions or a delightful sweet snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, almond paste, butter, and eggs in a bowl.
- Add flour last and mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into three equal parts.
- Line a 13 x 9-inch pan with foil and spray with Pam.
- Pour one part of the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 11 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through cooking. Consider using a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for almond paste, as it can be tricky to work with. If you don't have red or green food coloring, you can experiment with natural alternatives like beet juice or spinach powder for a subtle tint. For a nut-free version, replace almond paste with a similar amount of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Venetian Squares as a delightful dessert at gatherings or alongside coffee for a sweet afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete spread, consider offering them with Light Veggie Dip and fresh vegetables, balancing the sweetness with savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Cool the Venetian Squares completely before cutting them into squares. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the squares layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venetian Squares contains roughly 1533 calories, with 14g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make Venetian Squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! Venetian Squares can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This makes them perfect for parties or potlucks, allowing you to prepare other dishes without stress.
What can I substitute for almond paste?
If almond paste isn't available, you can use marzipan as a direct substitute, or create a DIY version by blending equal parts of finely ground almonds and powdered sugar with a bit of water. This will mimic the texture and flavor needed for the recipe.
Can I add other flavors to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding extracts such as vanilla, almond, or even citrus zest for a fresh twist. Just be cautious with the quantity to ensure it doesn't overpower the other flavors in the Venetian Squares.
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).