π©βπ³ Ashley’s Pecan Squares π₯§
Ashley’s Pecan Squares are a delightful dessert, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. These scrumptious treats are a classic Southern dessert, and they are known for their rich, buttery crust and the gooey pecan filling. Let’s delve into the history, components, steps to prepare, and time needed to make this delectable dessert.
π History:
Pecan squares have their roots in the American South, where pecan trees thrive. The dessert is a variation of pecan pie, a traditional Southern treat. Pecans were a common ingredient in Southern cuisine, and this recipe likely emerged as a way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie in a more portable and snackable form. The exact origins of Ashley’s Pecan Squares are unclear, but they’ve become a beloved classic in Southern baking.
π₯ Components:
- Crust: The crust for Ashley’s Pecan Squares typically consists of all-purpose flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. Some recipes may also include a bit of sugar for added sweetness.
- Filling: The filling is where the magic happens. It’s a mix of pecans, eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and a touch of salt. This gooey filling sets as it bakes, creating a luscious and nutty layer.
π©βπ³ Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened), and a pinch of salt until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake it for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, beat 3 eggs.
- Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 cup of light corn syrup, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the eggs. Mix thoroughly.
- Stir in 2 cups of chopped pecans.
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Bake:
- Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the filling has set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
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Cool and Cut:
- Allow the pecan squares to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cool, you can cut them into squares or rectangles for serving.
β²οΈ Time Needed:
The total time needed to make Ashley’s Pecan Squares is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes prep time, baking time, and cooling time. The preparation is relatively straightforward, making it a popular choice for those looking to whip up a delicious dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.
Enjoy your time baking these delightful pecan squares, and share them with your loved ones! ππ©βπ³π₯§π½οΈ
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Ashley’s Pecan Squares:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximately 1 square):
- Calories: About 250-300 calories
- Total Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 5-8 grams
- Cholesterol: Around 30-40 milligrams
- Sodium: Approximately 100-150 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: About 30-35 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Around 1-2 grams
- Sugars: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Protein: Around 2-4 grams
Please note that these values can vary slightly depending on the specific recipe and serving size.
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: Ashley’s Pecan Squares are a high-calorie dessert due to their buttery crust and sugar-rich filling. Enjoy them in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.
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Fats: The dessert is rich in fats, primarily from butter and pecans. While these fats can be part of a balanced diet, consuming too much saturated fat may not be ideal for heart health.
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Sugar: Pecan squares are sweetened with brown sugar and corn syrup. High sugar intake should be moderated to maintain overall health.
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Nutrients: Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. They can be a nutritious addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.
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Portion Control: Due to their high-calorie and sugar content, it’s advisable to enjoy these squares in smaller portions, especially if you’re mindful of your sugar and calorie intake.
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Balance: As with most desserts, moderation is key. Pairing these sweet treats with a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Remember that the health impact of any dessert depends on portion size and overall dietary choices. Enjoy Ashley’s Pecan Squares as an occasional treat and balance them with a well-rounded diet. π₯§ππ₯¦π₯π½οΈ