Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Applesauce Date and Raisin Squares are not just another dessert – they're a magical blend of sweet, moist, and wholesome goodness that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Imagine biting into a soft, perfectly spiced square that combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the rich, chewy texture of dates and raisins – it's like a warm hug for your taste buds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup dates, chopped
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk together until well blended and no lumps remain.
- In a separate large bowl, mix the applesauce, chopped dates, and raisins until evenly distributed. The moisture from the applesauce will help soften the dried fruits.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the squares tough.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula and ensuring the mixture reaches all corners.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the squares cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows them to set and makes cutting easier.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares. Serve warm or at room temperature. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the most consistent mixing and baking results.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into wet ingredients to keep your squares tender and light.
- Check for Moisture: Use the toothpick test carefully – a few moist crumbs are perfect, but wet batter means more baking time.
- Customize Your Squares: Experiment with adding nuts like chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor complexity.
- Storage Hack: These squares stay moist for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent treat, warm the squares slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
