Cranberry Squares

Cranberry Squares Recipe - Ingredients, Steps, and Tips for Making it Perfectly

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 9

Introduction

Cranberry squares are a delicious and festive dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. These sweet and tart squares are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

History

The recipe for cranberry squares has been passed down through generations in many families. Cranberries have long been a staple in American cuisine, especially during the fall and winter months. The combination of sweet and tart flavors in this dessert is a perfect way to showcase the unique taste of cranberries.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of sugar
2 large eggs
0.75 cups of melted butter or margarine, cooled slightly
1 tbsp of almond extract
1.5 cups of flour
2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries
0.5 cups of chopped almonds or pecans

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Butter a 9-inch square baking pan.
Using a mixer, beat the sugar and eggs in a large bowl until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
Beat in the melted butter and extract.
Add the flour and stir until well blended.
Stir in the cranberries and pecans.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake until a tester comes out clean, about 1 hour.
Cool completely before cutting.
If doubling the recipe, use two 9-inch pans (not a 9x13 pan).

Variations

Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm and cozy touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cool the melted margarine slightly before adding it to the batter to prevent the eggs from cooking.

- Be sure to use fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor.

- If doubling the recipe, be sure to use two 9-inch pans instead of one 9x13 pan to ensure even baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cranberry squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cool the melted margarine slightly before adding it to the batter to prevent the eggs from cooking.

- Stir the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Use almond or vanilla extract instead of almond extract for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Cranberry squares can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the top of the cranberry squares with powdered sugar for a festive touch before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve cranberry squares with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cranberry squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cranberry squares contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cranberry squares contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cranberry squares contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cranberry squares contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, wheat, and nuts (pecans).

Summary

Cranberry squares are a delicious dessert option that is relatively low in calories but higher in carbohydrates and fats. They are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Summary

Cranberry squares are a delicious and festive dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. With a sweet and tart flavor profile, these squares are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cranberry Squares. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town. The recipe was handed down to me from my own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend.

I can still picture the old, yellowed recipe card with its faded ink and smudged corners. The ingredients were simple - cranberries, sugar, flour, butter, and a few other pantry staples. But when combined just right, they created a dessert that was pure magic.

I remember watching my grandmother as she measured out each ingredient with care, her hands moving deftly as she mixed and stirred. She taught me the importance of patience and precision in the kitchen, and I soaked up every bit of her wisdom like a sponge.

As the Cranberry Squares baked in the oven, the scent of warm berries and buttery crust filled the air. I couldn't wait to taste the final product, and when it was finally ready, I was not disappointed.

The Cranberry Squares were a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a buttery crust that melted in your mouth. They quickly became a family favorite, and I was proud to carry on the tradition of making them for special occasions and gatherings.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and toppings to make it my own. But the basic foundation remains the same - simple, delicious, and made with love.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing it on to the next generation just as my grandmother did for me. And each time I make a batch of Cranberry Squares, I am transported back to that kitchen long ago, watching my grandmother work her magic with a humble recipe and a whole lot of heart.

So here it is, my beloved recipe for Cranberry Squares. May it bring you as much joy and wonder as it has brought me over the years. And always remember, the secret ingredient is love.