Whole Wheat Almond Squares Recipe: A Nutty Delight for Your Taste Buds
Whole Wheat Almond Squares are a healthy, wholesome treat made with whole wheat flour and ground almonds. These almond-packed squares are perfect as a sweet after-dinner dessert or a refreshing snack during tea time. With the warm spices of cinnamon and cardamom, alongside the rich flavor of vanilla, they create an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake. Whether you’re looking for an energy-boosting afternoon snack or a delicious addition to the kids’ lunchbox, these squares are sure to please everyone. They can also be served alongside a refreshing smoothie, adding a nutritious touch to your snack time.
Course: Snack
Cuisine: Continental
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Whole Almonds (Badam), ground | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (Salted), room temperature | 1/2 cup |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1 1/4 cups |
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Almonds (Badam), chopped | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 16 squares (approximately)
Instructions:
-
Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a square baking pan (8×8 inches works best). Set it aside.
-
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ground almonds, cinnamon powder, cardamom powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and set this bowl aside.
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the softened butter and brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
-
Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Crack the whole eggs into the butter-sugar mixture and add the vanilla extract. Continue to blend until everything is well incorporated and the batter is smooth and creamy.
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Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently as you go. Beat until the batter is smooth and well combined.
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Add Chopped Almonds:
- Gently fold in the roughly chopped whole almonds (or halved almonds if you prefer), making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Bake the Squares:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a few more chopped almonds on top for added crunch and texture.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the squares comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch.
-
Cool and Slice:
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and set it aside to cool completely. This step is crucial, as cutting the squares while they are still warm can cause them to break apart. Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before slicing it into squares.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- These Whole Wheat Almond Squares are perfect for an afternoon tea, a light dessert, or a nutritious snack. You can pair them with a refreshing drink like a watermelon smoothie or enjoy them on their own.
Tips for the Perfect Whole Wheat Almond Squares:
- Almond Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of almonds. Sliced or blanched almonds can be used for a slightly different texture.
- Storage: Store the Whole Wheat Almond Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. They also freeze well if you want to make them ahead of time.
- Flavor Variations: Add a handful of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for an extra burst of flavor. You can also substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Whole Wheat Almond Squares offer a delightful combination of nutty richness, aromatic spices, and a light, tender texture. Whether you bake them for a family gathering or enjoy them alone with a cup of tea, they are bound to satisfy your craving for a healthy, indulgent snack.
