Aunt Mary’s Squares

🍰 Aunt Mary’s Squares 🍰

Aunt Mary’s Squares are a delightful and classic dessert that has been a favorite in many households for generations. They are known for their sweet and buttery base, topped with a luscious mixture of nuts and a delicious caramel layer. Let’s dive into the history, components, preparation steps, and estimated time needed to make this scrumptious treat.

📜 History:
The exact origin of Aunt Mary’s Squares is unclear, but it’s often associated with traditional American baking. These squares have likely been a cherished family recipe handed down through generations. The rich, comforting flavors and textures have made them a staple at family gatherings and bake sales.

📦 Components:

1. Shortbread Base: This is the foundation of Aunt Mary’s Squares. It’s a buttery, crumbly, and slightly sweet crust made from a mixture of flour, butter, and sugar.

2. Nut Topping: Chopped nuts, typically pecans or walnuts, are sprinkled over the shortbread base. The nuts add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.

3. Caramel Layer: A gooey, caramel layer is poured over the nuts. It’s made from a combination of sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter, creating a heavenly, sticky caramel that binds everything together.

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:

   • 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter (for the base)
   • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
   • 1/2 cup of granulated sugar (for the base)
   • 1 cup of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
   • 1 cup of brown sugar
   • 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk

2. Make the Shortbread Base:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, flour, and granulated sugar. Mix until it forms a crumbly dough.
   • Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • Bake the base for 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden.

3. Add the Nut Topping:

   • After removing the base from the oven, sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the hot base.

4. Prepare the Caramel Layer:

   • In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and turns into a caramel-like consistency. This can take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Pour the Caramel Over the Nuts:

   • Carefully pour the caramel mixture over the nuts on the base, ensuring it’s spread evenly.

6. Bake Again:

   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the caramel layer is set and the edges turn golden brown.

7. Cool and Cut:

   • Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or bars.

⏰ Time Needed:
The total time required to prepare Aunt Mary’s Squares, including preparation and baking, is approximately 1 hour. This time may vary slightly depending on your oven and experience in the kitchen.

Enjoy these delectable treats with a cup of coffee or tea, and share the love with your friends and family. 🍰😋

🍽️ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Aunt Mary’s Squares 🍽️

While Aunt Mary’s Squares are undeniably delicious, they are also quite indulgent and should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and calorie content. Here’s some nutrition information and health considerations for this dessert:

📊 Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-10g
• Cholesterol: 30-50mg
• Sodium: 100-150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugars: 30-40g
• Protein: 4-6g

🔍 Health Information:

1. Caloric Content: Aunt Mary’s Squares are calorie-dense, primarily due to the butter, sugar, and condensed milk. Consuming them in excess can contribute to weight gain.

2. Saturated Fat: The squares are high in saturated fat, which, when consumed in large amounts, can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

3. Sugar Content: These squares are laden with sugar, primarily from the caramel layer. Excessive sugar consumption is linked to various health issues, including tooth decay, obesity, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

4. Nutritional Benefits: On the positive side, nuts provide healthy fats and some protein. They also contain vitamins and minerals. However, the high sugar and fat content in this recipe may overshadow the nutritional benefits of the nuts.

5. Portion Control: It’s essential to practice portion control when enjoying Aunt Mary’s Squares. Cutting them into smaller pieces can help limit calorie and sugar intake.

6. Balanced Diet: These squares should be considered a special treat and not a regular part of your diet. For better health, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

7. Moderation: While indulging in such sweet treats is perfectly fine on occasion, it’s best to limit your consumption to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Remember that nutrition facts can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice on your diet. 😊🍽️