Waterloo Squares
Rich and indulgent Waterloo Squares combine a buttery cake base with a creamy cream cheese topping, chocolate chips, and pecans, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Mix margarine, yellow cake mix, and egg until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and chocolate chips over the cake mixture.
- In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top of the layered ingredients.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until set and lightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can swap chopped pecans for walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. If you're short on time, use a pre-made cream cheese frosting instead of making your own. Make sure to mix the cream cheese mixture thoroughly to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth topping. This recipe is a great way to use leftover cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Waterloo Squares as a delightful dessert for gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, try drizzling chocolate sauce on top or serving them with whipped cream. These squares also make for a great addition to potlucks or picnics, as they are easy to transport and share.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Waterloo Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave for a few seconds until just warm. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but still tasty after a few days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waterloo Squares contains roughly 641 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g 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 use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate or vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile. Chocolate cake mix will enhance the chocolate chips, while vanilla will allow the cream cheese to shine. Just ensure that the cake mix is of a similar size to maintain the recipe's balance.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular yellow cake mix to make Waterloo Squares gluten-free. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like baking powder or chocolate chips, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, Waterloo Squares can be made a day in advance. Just bake, cool, and store them in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious. Just remember to let them return to room temperature before serving for the best 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).