Elizabeth Square
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 25 squares
Description:
Indulge in the delightful Elizabeth Square, a quintessential New Zealand treat perfect for sharing. This easy-to-make dessert combines buttery, sweet layers with a tangy raspberry jam and a crunchy coconut topping. Ideal for large gatherings, it’s a cost-effective recipe that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/2 cup for different steps)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1 egg yolk (from a large egg)
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam
- 1 egg white (beaten until very stiff)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for baking. Ensure that your oven is fully preheated before placing the dessert inside.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
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Incorporate the Egg Yolk: Beat in the egg yolk, ensuring it’s fully combined with the butter-sugar mixture.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this sifted mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well until a smooth dough forms.
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Prepare the Base Layer: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased sponge roll tin (approximately 15×10 inches or similar size). Ensure that the dough is spread out uniformly to create a consistent base layer.
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Add the Raspberry Jam: Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam evenly over the dough base. Make sure the jam covers the entire surface for a sweet and tangy layer.
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Prepare the Topping: In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, shredded coconut, and cocoa powder until the mixture is well combined.
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Spread the Topping: Carefully spread the topping mixture over the raspberry jam layer. Ensure the topping is evenly distributed for a consistent texture.
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Bake the Dessert: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are crisp.
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Cool and Cut: Once baked, allow the Elizabeth Square to cool in the tin for a few minutes. Cut into squares while still warm to ensure clean cuts and avoid crumbling.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 135.8
- Fat: 6.3 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4.4 grams
- Cholesterol: 24.9 milligrams
- Sodium: 47 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 18.9 grams
- Fiber: 0.8 grams
- Sugar: 12.3 grams
- Protein: 1.6 grams
Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, New Zealand, Sweet, Under 60 Minutes, For Large Groups, Oven, Inexpensive
Enjoy this scrumptious Elizabeth Square as a delightful treat for your next gathering or family event!