πΌπ¦ Angel Squares: A Sweet Treat π¬
Angel Squares are a delightful dessert that will make your taste buds sing with joy! These heavenly squares are known for their light, fluffy texture and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Let’s dive into the history, components, preparation steps, and time needed to make this heavenly treat. π
History:
The exact origin of Angel Squares is a bit hazy, but they are believed to have their roots in classic American dessert recipes. These squares have been a beloved treat for generations and are often enjoyed at family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions.
Components:
To make Angel Squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of powdered sugar
- 2 eggs
- 8 oz of cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (usually pecans or walnuts)
- 1 can of cherry pie filling
Steps to Prepare Angel Squares:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
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Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of melted butter. Mix until you have a crumbly dough. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to create the crust.
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth. Then, add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is well combined.
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Layering: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top.
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Cherry Topping: Finally, evenly distribute the can of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
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Cool and Cut: Allow the Angel Squares to cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, you can cut them into squares or bars.
Time Needed:
The preparation time for Angel Squares is relatively quick, usually taking around 15-20 minutes. The baking time is approximately 45 minutes, and you’ll also need some time for the squares to cool down before cutting them. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
So there you have it! Angel Squares are a heavenly dessert that’s rich in history and flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a special event or just treating yourself to something sweet, these squares are sure to be a hit! ππ° Enjoy!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Angel Squares:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Cholesterol: 40-50mg
- Sodium: 100-150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5-1g
- Sugars: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
Health Information:
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Calorie Content: Angel Squares are a moderately calorie-dense dessert due to their buttery crust and cream cheese layer. Consuming them in moderation is advisable, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
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Total Fat: They contain a significant amount of fat, primarily from the butter and cream cheese. While some fat is necessary for flavor and texture, it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation to avoid excessive saturated fat intake.
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Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is relatively high, primarily from the butter and cream cheese. High saturated fat intake is associated with heart health concerns, so limit consumption.
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Cholesterol: Angel Squares contain a moderate amount of cholesterol, mainly from the eggs and cream cheese. If you have dietary restrictions related to cholesterol, be mindful of your portion size.
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Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, making them a reasonable choice for those watching their sodium intake.
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Total Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content mainly comes from sugar in the powdered sugar and cherry pie filling. These squares are sweet, so it’s advisable to consume them as an occasional treat.
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Dietary Fiber: They are low in dietary fiber, which is typical for desserts. Fiber helps with digestion and satiety, but these squares aren’t a significant source.
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Protein: They provide a small amount of protein, primarily from the eggs and nuts. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, but these squares aren’t a substantial protein source.
In summary, Angel Squares are a delicious dessert but should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high fat and sugar content. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before indulging in such treats.