Pecan Squares
On our way to and from the Washington coast, we often stop at a small restaurant in Montesano called Savory Faire. They serve outstanding cinnamon rolls and imaginative sandwiches, but the recipe Id most like to have is the one for pecan squares.
On our way to and from the Washington coast, we often stop at a small restaurant in Montesano called Savory Faire. They serve outstanding cinnamon rolls and imaginative sandwiches, but the recipe Id most like to have is the one for pecan squares.
- Carbohydrate 33 g(11%)
- Cholesterol 29 mg(10%)
- Fat 19 g(29%)
- Fiber 1 g(6%)
- Protein 3 g(5%)
- Saturated Fat 7 g(37%)
- Sodium 6 mg(0%)
- Calories 300
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter 13x9x2-inch metal baking pan.
- Blend flour and powdered sugar in processor. Add butter and cut in, using on/off turns, until moist clumps form.
- Press dough onto bottom of prepared pan.
- Bake until golden, about 20 minutes.
- Maintain oven temperature.
- Stir pecans, brown sugar, honey and cream in heavy small saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Boil until mixture bubbles, about 2 minutes.
- Pour pecan mixture over crust.
- Bake until filling bubbles and is light caramel color, about 20 minutes.
- Cool completely. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover tightly and store at room temperature.)
- Cut into squares and serve.
My Secret Weapon for Unexpected Guests: Pecan Squares
Let me tell you, life as a busy mom is a whirlwind. Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, soccer practice, and grocery shopping, finding time for anything beyond the bare minimum feels like a Herculean task. Dinner often consists of whatever I can throw together quickly, and baking? Well, let's just say that's a luxury I rarely indulge in. But then, there are those unexpected moments – a friend stopping by after a long day, a last-minute book club gathering, or a family member unexpectedly dropping in. That's when I pull out my secret weapon: Pecan Squares.
These little squares of buttery, nutty goodness are my go-to dessert for these situations. They're surprisingly easy to make (I swear, even I can manage them!), and they always impress. The rich, caramel-like pecan topping is a delightful contrast to the crumbly shortbread crust, and the overall effect is one of sophisticated simplicity. Forget fancy fondant or intricate sugar work; these squares are about pure, unadulterated deliciousness. They are the perfect sweet treat to share with friends or to enjoy with a cup of tea after a long day. The beauty of this recipe is that they can be made ahead of time. I often prepare a batch on the weekend, storing them in an airtight container, ready for whenever the unexpected happens. This saves me so much stress when I have little time to prepare, and yet, they are still always a crowd-pleaser.
The recipe itself is quite simple, using ingredients that I usually already have on hand. The process is straightforward, even for a beginner baker like myself. It involves making a simple shortbread crust, which I usually do in my food processor for extra ease, followed by a luscious pecan filling. This pecan mixture is quick to prepare on the stovetop. The whole process takes under an hour, making it perfect for a quick baking project. The final product is a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, with a delightful textural contrast between the crispy crust and the gooey filling. I usually serve them warm, allowing the rich caramel aroma to fill the house, which only enhances the overall experience.
Making these Pecan Squares is more than just baking; it's about creating a moment of warmth and connection. It's about sharing something homemade with the people I care about, showing them that even in the midst of a busy life, there's always time to create something special. And let's be honest, the feeling of accomplishment after successfully baking something delicious is always a welcome treat in itself.
So, if you're looking for a dessert that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress, look no further than these Pecan Squares. They're my little secret to handling unexpected guests, and I hope they become yours too. They are the perfect recipe to keep in your back pocket for those unplanned social gatherings. It’s a simple recipe, yet it always manages to leave a lasting impression, as it’s not only delicious, but also shows thoughtfulness and care. It's a small gesture that speaks volumes, transforming a simple gathering into a memorable occasion. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than stressing over the dessert.
Beyond the baking: These Pecan Squares are versatile too! They're excellent for potlucks, bake sales, or even just a quiet evening at home. They store well, making them ideal for meal prepping, and their rich, flavorful profile makes them a perfect companion to coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. They are surprisingly adaptable too; you can experiment with different nuts or even add a dash of cinnamon to the filling for an extra layer of warmth. The possibilities are endless!
