Squares

New England Squares Recipe with Mincemeat and Sweetened Condensed Milk

Region / culture: New England | Servings: 12

Introduction

Squares are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of graham crackers, mincemeat, and sweetened condensed milk. These squares are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you're craving a sweet treat.

History

The exact origins of squares are unclear, but they have been a popular dessert for many years. The combination of graham crackers, mincemeat, and sweetened condensed milk creates a unique and tasty treat that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1.33 cups ready-to-use mincemeat (I use the kind in a jar, or you can use your own homemade)
1 (15 oz (425 g)) can sweetened condensed milk

How to prepare

1. In a blender, combine the crumbs, mincemeat, and condensed milk.
2. Transfer the mixture into a well-greased 9 x 13 inches pan.
3. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until it turns lightly browned.
4. Allow the dish to cool in the pan before cutting into pieces.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or nuts to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
Use a different type of fruit filling in place of the mincemeat for a different twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to grease your pan well before adding the mixture to prevent sticking.

- Be sure to allow the squares to cool completely before cutting into pieces to ensure they hold their shape.

- You can customize this recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to the mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Squares can be served on their own as a dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers instead.

- If you don't have mincemeat, you can use a different fruit filling such as cherry or apple pie filling.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve squares on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Squares pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of squares contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of squares contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of squares contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of squares contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Squares are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the graham crackers. It may also contain nuts if added as a mix-in.

Summary

Squares are a sweet and indulgent dessert that is best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Summary

Squares are a delicious and easy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy these sweet treats in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house for a potluck. As soon as I walked in, the savory aroma of freshly baked squares filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and led me to the kitchen where she had laid out a feast of delicious treats. There were cookies, cakes, and pies, but the squares caught my eye. They were golden brown with a crumbly crust and a sweet fruit filling peeking out from the edges.

I couldn't resist asking Martha for the recipe, and she generously agreed to share it with me. She handed me a worn piece of paper with faded writing and explained that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations.

As I read through the instructions, I could tell that this was no ordinary dessert. The recipe called for a unique combination of ingredients and a special technique that Martha had learned from her grandmother.

I was determined to master this recipe and make it my own. I spent hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different flavors and textures until I finally found the perfect balance. The squares turned out beautifully, with a delicate crust that crumbled in your mouth and a sweet, tangy filling that left you craving more.

I was so proud of my creation that I decided to share it with my own family and friends. They were amazed by the squares and begged me for the recipe. I happily obliged, passing on the tradition of this special dessert to the next generation.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twist to it and making it a staple at family gatherings and special occasions. Each time I made the squares, I felt a sense of pride and connection to the women who had come before me, passing down their culinary knowledge and love through this simple yet delicious dessert.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing a batch of squares for a family dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that brought us all together. It's more than just a dessert – it's a link to my past, a reminder of the women who shaped me and the flavors that have defined my life.

As the squares bake in the oven, filling the house with their irresistible scent, I can't help but smile. I may have learned this recipe from a friend, but it has become a part of me, a cherished tradition that I will pass on to future generations.

And so, with a heart full of love and gratitude, I take the squares out of the oven and set them on the table, ready to be enjoyed by my loved ones. As we gather around, sharing stories and laughter, I know that this simple dessert will always hold a special place in our hearts – a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories.