Waldorf Squares
Waldorf Squares are delightful dessert bars featuring a crunchy coconut and walnut topping, with a sweet brown sugar base, perfect for parties or afternoon treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup flour and 1/4 cup margarine and press into a pan; bake for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup coconut, 2 tablespoons flour, 2 beaten eggs, and 1 cup walnuts; blend well.
- Spread the mixture over the baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
- Frost and sprinkle with additional coconut if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor. If you prefer a sweeter treat, add a touch of vanilla extract to the batter. Make sure not to overbake the squares, as they should remain soft and chewy. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, much like New England Sponge Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Waldorf Squares as a delightful dessert at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving with a fruit salad or alongside Creamsicle Salad(Light). These squares also make a great coffee companion for afternoon tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Waldorf Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waldorf Squares contains roughly 949 calories, with 17g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 706mg per serving (31% 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 make these squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Waldorf Squares a day in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're planning to frost them, you can apply the frosting just before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're looking for alternatives to walnuts, chopped pecans or slivered almonds work well in this recipe. For a nut-free option, consider adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy texture and added sweetness. This keeps the recipe accessible for those with nut allergies.
How can I make these squares more festive?
To give your Waldorf Squares a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also top them with holiday-themed sprinkles or colored frosting. These small additions can elevate the dessert for special occasions, making them a delightful treat during the holidays.
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).