Classic Cherry Squares Recipe

Name: Classic Cherry Squares Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 95 min
Yield: 16 squares
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups cherry pie filling; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

95 min 16 squares Easy

All Recipes

Delight in these classic cherry squares, a perfect blend of buttery crust and tangy cherry filling.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

95 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cherry squares are a beloved dessert, cherished for their delightful combination of a buttery crust and vibrant cherry filling. This recipe brings together the simplicity of classic baking with the irresistible flavour of cherries, creating a treat that's both satisfying and nostalgic. Our version of cherry squares is designed for home bakers who appreciate the balance of sweet and tart. With a straightforward method and common pantry ingredients, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until crumbly. Press into the bottom of a greased 23x23 cm (9x9 inch) baking dish.

Pro tip: Ensure the crust is evenly pressed to prevent uneven baking.

Bake the crust

Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden.

Add cherry filling

Spread 2 cups of cherry pie filling evenly over the baked crust.

Pro tip: Use a spatula to ensure the filling is evenly distributed.

Prepare the topping

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup cold butter. Mix until crumbly.

Pro tip: Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the topping until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the topping

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cherry filling.

Final bake

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Pro tip: Check the edges; they should be lightly browned and crisp.

Cool before serving

Allow the cherry squares to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Pro tip: Cooling helps the squares set for easier cutting.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Use a glass or metal baking dish to evenly distribute heat.
Let the squares cool before cutting for cleaner slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cherry squares?

Cherry squares are a dessert consisting of a buttery crust, a layer of cherry filling, and a crumbly topping.

How many calories are in cherry squares?

Each cherry square contains approximately 210 calories.

Can I make cherry squares in advance?

Yes, cherry squares can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

How do you store cherry squares?

Store cherry squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

What is the best way to serve cherry squares?

Cherry squares are best served at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream for added indulgence.

Can I use fresh cherries for the filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries by cooking them with sugar to create a pie filling-like consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cherry squares as a delightful dessert for any occasion, or enjoy them as a sweet afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special touch, pair them with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These squares can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw before serving.