Little Squares
Little Squares Recipe from Romania - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
Little Squares are a delicious and simple dessert that is perfect for any occasion. These small, bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more. With a light and fluffy texture, these squares are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
History
The recipe for Little Squares has been passed down through generations in many families. This classic dessert has its roots in Eastern European cuisine, where it is often served at special occasions such as weddings and holidays. The combination of sour cream, sugar, and eggs creates a rich and decadent treat that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of flour
- 1.5 cups of sour cream
- 1 cup of sugar
- 6 eggs
- vanilla
- shortening for greasing the pan
- vanilla flavored confectioners' sugar
How to prepare
- Beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they lighten in color.
- Add ground vanilla stick mixed with a little sugar and sour cream, and mix well. Gradually add the flour.
- Gently fold in the whipped egg whites at the end.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake at low heat for 25 – 30 minutes.
- Once done, invert the cake onto a wooden cutting board lined with a cloth. While still hot, sprinkle with vanilla flavored confectioners' sugar. Let it cool completely, then cut into small squares and arrange on a plate.
Variations
- For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter before baking. You can also top the squares with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of cocoa powder for a decadent finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making Little Squares, it is important to beat the egg yolks and sugar until they are light and fluffy. This will help to create a smooth and creamy batter that will result in a tender and moist cake. Folding in the whipped egg whites at the end will help to give the squares a light and airy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Little Squares can be served on their own as a sweet treat, or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Cooking Techniques
When baking the Little Squares, be sure to use a low heat to ensure that they cook evenly and do not become dry or overcooked. It is also important to invert the cake onto a cutting board while it is still hot to ensure that it retains its shape and does not stick to the pan.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. You can also use margarine or butter in place of shortening for greasing the pan.
Make Ahead Tips
Little Squares can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month and reheated in the oven before serving.
Presentation Ideas
To make the Little Squares more visually appealing, you can dust them with powdered sugar or top them with fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. You can also serve them on a decorative platter or cake stand for a more elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Little Squares pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They can also be served alongside a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for a more indulgent dessert option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To store leftover Little Squares, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Little Squares contains approximately 200 calories. This makes them a relatively low-calorie dessert option that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Little Squares contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health and well-being.
Fats
Each serving of Little Squares contains approximately 10 grams of fat. While fats are often demonized in the diet, they are essential for proper bodily function and can provide a source of long-lasting energy.
Proteins
Each serving of Little Squares contains approximately 5 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body and is essential for overall health and well-being.
Vitamins and minerals
Little Squares are a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A. These essential nutrients are important for maintaining strong bones, healthy blood, and good vision.
Alergens
Little Squares contain eggs and dairy, so they may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. It is important to check for any allergens before consuming this dessert.
Summary
Overall, Little Squares are a delicious and satisfying dessert option that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals, these squares are a tasty treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Summary
Little Squares are a delicious and simple dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a light and fluffy texture and a rich and decadent flavor, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more. Whether served on their own or paired with a scoop of ice cream, Little Squares are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Little Squares. It was a hot summer day, the kind of day where the sun beat down relentlessly and all you wanted to do was stay indoors with the air conditioning blasting. I was rummaging through a box of old recipe cards that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, searching for some inspiration for a new dessert to try.
As I sifted through the cards, my eyes landed on a faded, yellowed piece of paper with the words "Little Squares" scrawled across the top in my grandmother's elegant handwriting. I had never heard of this particular dessert before, but something about the simplicity of the name intrigued me. I decided then and there that I would give it a try.
The recipe itself was fairly straightforward, calling for just a handful of ingredients that I already had on hand – flour, sugar, butter, and a few other pantry staples. The instructions were simple, too: mix the dry ingredients together, cut in the butter, press the mixture into a pan, and bake until golden brown.
I followed the recipe to a tee, not deviating from a single instruction. As the squares baked in the oven, a sweet, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the pan out of the oven and let it cool before cutting it into bite-sized squares.
The first bite was pure heaven. The squares were rich and buttery, with a hint of sweetness that lingered on the palate. They were the perfect combination of crunchy and chewy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that was absolutely addictive. I knew then and there that this recipe was a keeper.
Over the years, I made Little Squares countless times, each time tweaking the recipe ever so slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor, or a handful of nuts for a crunchy texture. Other times, I would experiment with different types of sugar or flour to see how it would change the final product.
One day, as I was preparing a batch of Little Squares for a family gathering, my granddaughter came into the kitchen and asked what I was making. I explained the recipe to her, showing her how to measure out the ingredients and mix them together. She watched intently, her eyes wide with curiosity and her hands itching to get involved.
As the squares baked in the oven, my granddaughter and I sat at the kitchen table, chatting and laughing as we waited for them to finish. When they were finally done, we eagerly cut them into squares and sampled our handiwork. My granddaughter's face lit up with delight as she took her first bite, savoring the sweet, buttery flavor.
From that day on, my granddaughter became my sous chef in the kitchen, helping me make all sorts of recipes – from savory dishes to sweet treats. But it was always the Little Squares that held a special place in both of our hearts. They became our go-to dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always eliciting oohs and ahhs from everyone who tried them.
As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Little Squares, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures that cooking has brought into my life. It's not just about following a set of instructions or using the right ingredients – it's about the joy of creating something delicious and sharing it with the ones you love.
And so, I pass this recipe on to you, my dear granddaughter, in the hopes that you will continue to make it for generations to come. May these Little Squares bring as much joy and happiness to your life as they have to mine. Happy baking! 🌟
With love,
Grandma
Categories
| Cream Cheese Recipes | Egg Recipes | Ethnic And Regional Cookies | Romanian Desserts | Romanian Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes |