Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when gatherings with family and friends fill the air with laughter and joy. One of my absolute favorite treats to bring to these festive occasions is my delicious *christmas squares*. They’re a true crowd-pleaser, and trust me, once you taste them, you’ll understand why! These squares are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful blend of flavors that transport me back to my childhood. I remember helping my mom in the kitchen, and the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and toasted coconut would fill our home. It’s a recipe that brings everyone together, making every bite a cherished memory. Let’s dive into this festive favorite!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful *christmas squares*:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 2 cups of packed brown sugar
- 4 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (your choice!)
- 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
How to Prepare Christmas Squares
Making these *christmas squares* is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a tray full of deliciousness ready for sharing (or indulging all by yourself!).
Step 1: Preheat and Melt
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, melt your butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. I love how the butter just starts to bubble and melt into a golden pool of goodness!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar until it’s fully dissolved. It should look smooth and glossy! Now, add in the graham cracker crumbs and mix until everything is well combined. It’s okay if it looks a little crumbly; that’s part of the charm!
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Time to amp up the flavor! Stir in the shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and your choice of chopped nuts. This is where the magic happens—each bite will be packed with delicious textures and flavors!
Step 4: Bake the Mixture
Now, press this heavenly mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Don’t be shy—press it down firmly! Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the top and then pop it into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s beautifully golden brown and the edges are a bit crisp.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
After baking, let the squares cool in the dish for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling time is crucial, as it helps them set perfectly. Once cool, cut them into squares and get ready for compliments!
Nutritional Information
These *christmas squares* are not only delicious but also offer a satisfying treat for your sweet tooth! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per square: around 250 calories, 12 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 34 grams of carbohydrates. Just keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But hey, it’s the holidays—enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To ensure your *christmas squares* turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips! First, keep an eye on them while baking—the edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft. Don’t rush the cooling process, as this helps them firm up for easier cutting. Once they’re cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and moist. If you want to make them ahead of time, they actually taste even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together!
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations for these *christmas squares*! For a nutty twist, try using different nuts like pecans or walnuts instead of the usual choice—each will bring its own unique flavor. Feeling a bit adventurous? Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, festive spice that really elevates the taste! You can also experiment with different types of chocolate; dark chocolate chips can add a rich depth, while white chocolate gives a sweet contrast. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
These *christmas squares* are perfect on their own, but why not elevate your holiday spread? Pair them with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat! They also shine alongside classic holiday cookies or a festive cheese platter. Trust me, your guests will love having a little bit of everything to enjoy during those joyous gatherings!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of nuts in my Christmas squares?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts like pecans or almonds. Just make sure to chop them up so they mix in well!
How should I store the Christmas squares?
Store your squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I make these squares in advance?
Yes, you can make them a day ahead! In fact, letting them sit overnight allows the flavors to develop even more, making them taste even better the next day!
What can I do if the squares are too crumbly?
If your squares seem too crumbly, they might not have cooled long enough, or they need a bit more sweetened condensed milk drizzled on top before baking. Just give them a gentle press when you cut them!
Can I freeze my Christmas squares?
Definitely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture!
Christmas Squares: 5 Delightful Tips for Perfect Treats
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Christmas squares perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of butter
- 2 cups of brown sugar
- 4 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup of shredded coconut
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
- 1 cup of chopped nuts
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Mix in brown sugar until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in graham cracker crumbs.
- Add coconut, chocolate chips, and nuts. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Feel free to substitute nuts with your favorite type.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: christmas squares, holiday dessert, festive treat
