Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares – a dessert that embodies the perfect blend of buttery goodness and sweet decadence. These squares encapsulate the essence of Southern comfort in every bite, with a gooey brown sugar filling that harmonizes beautifully with a crisp shortbread crust. Transport yourself to a nostalgic place with each mouthful, reminiscent of the homemade treats from grandma’s kitchen.

Crafted with pantry staples and a dash of love, these Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares are a delightful addition to any gathering. Whether you’re headed to a potluck or hosting a family feast, these squares are sure to steal the show. Elevate them with a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch that will have everyone asking for more.

The simplicity of the ingredients and the heartwarming flavors make these squares a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Follow your baking instincts as you create these delectable treats, ensuring the perfect balance of gooey filling and buttery crust. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the rich, caramel notes of Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares.

Quick Benefits

• Addictive Flavor: The perfect mix of buttery shortbread and gooey brown sugar creates a rich and addictive taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, these squares are easy to whip up for any occasion, from bake sales to family gatherings.
• Versatile: Dress them up with nuts or caramel sauce for a special touch, or enjoy them plain. They travel well, making them ideal for potlucks and parties.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings whenever they strike.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe Recipe

• Addictive Flavor: The combination of gooey brown sugar filling and buttery shortbread crust creates a magical flavor that will have you craving more.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simpler than a traditional pie but still delivers all the delicious caramel flavors of the South, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
• Pantry Staples: Chances are you have all the ingredients needed in your pantry, making it convenient and cost-effective to whip up a batch of these squares whenever a craving strikes.
• Perfect for Sharing: These squares are great for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or bake sales, as they travel well and are always a hit with a crowd.
• Customizable: You can easily customize these squares by adding nuts or drizzling caramel sauce on top, allowing you to create a more decadent treat for special occasions.
• Make-ahead: These squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making them a convenient dessert option for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these squares on their own, topped with whipped cream or ice cream, or as part of a dessert spread during the holidays. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

Ingredients for Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
• 1/4 cup whipping cream.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted.
• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and chilled.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
• 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, firmly packed.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Pro Tips for Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe

Pro Tip 1: When making the shortbread crust, make sure to leave small butter pieces in the mixture to achieve a flaky and crisp texture. Press the crust firmly into the pan before baking to ensure a sturdy base for the gooey brown sugar filling.

Pro Tip 2: To prevent burning, keep a close eye on the squares while baking, especially around the edges. The filling should have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools. Consider using parchment paper between layers if stacking the squares to avoid sticking.

Pro Tip 3: For serving and storage, add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the Southern brown sugar squares. These squares can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Cut them into smaller portions before freezing for easy snacking when the craving strikes.

How to Make Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for handles.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in chilled butter until pea-sized. Stir in vanilla and press mixture into pan.

Step 3: Step 03

Place the shortbread crust in the oven and bake for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine brown sugar, cream, eggs, melted butter, cornstarch, vanilla, and salt; whisk until smooth.

Step 5: Step 05

Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake for 25 minutes until the edges are crispy but the center jiggles slightly.

Step 6: Step 06

Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours until firm. Cut into 16 squares before serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares, place them in a sealed container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 4 days when properly stored. If stacking the squares, it’s recommended to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.

If you have leftovers or want to save some for later, you can freeze the brown sugar squares for up to 3 months. Cut them into smaller portions before freezing for easy portioning when you want to enjoy them. Freezing them in smaller portions also allows for quicker thawing when you’re ready to indulge in a sweet treat.

When serving the Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares, consider topping them with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. These squares are versatile and can be enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee, as a dessert at holiday gatherings, or as a delightful treat at potlucks and family events.

Ingredient Substitutions

For potential ingredient substitutions in this Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares recipe, you can consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute coconut oil for the unsalted butter in both the crust and filling. This swap will impart a subtle coconut flavor to the squares.

If you are looking to reduce the sweetness level, you can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a more intense caramel flavor. Furthermore, to make this recipe gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. This adjustment will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these delicious Southern brown sugar pie squares without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful twist, try serving these Southern brown sugar pie squares warm with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top. The combination of the gooey brown sugar filling, buttery shortbread crust, and the sweet-salty caramel sauce will take these squares to the next level of decadence.

Another creative serving suggestion is to sandwich a small scoop of your favorite ice cream between two squares to create a delicious brown sugar pie square ice cream sandwich. The contrast of the cold ice cream against the warm brown sugar filling and the crispy shortbread crust creates a delightful texture and flavor experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

FAQs for Delicious Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares Recipe

Can I freeze these Southern brown sugar pie squares?

Yes, you can freeze these squares for up to 3 months. Cut them first into smaller portions, then freeze in a sealed container. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings whenever you want.

How long do these brown sugar squares stay good in the fridge?

These brown sugar squares stay good in the fridge for about 4 days. Ensure to keep them in a sealed container to maintain their freshness.

What should I do if the sugar starts to burn while baking these pie squares?

If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further burning. Keep an eye on the squares as sugar can burn quickly.

Can I add nuts or caramel sauce to these Southern brown sugar pie squares?

Absolutely! You can dress up these squares by adding nuts or drizzling them with caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Get creative and customize them to your liking!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy baking and indulging in these Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares as much as I do. They truly capture the essence of Southern comfort and are a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of the buttery shortbread crust and the gooey brown sugar filling is a match made in dessert heaven.

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these squares are sure to impress your friends and family. The best part is that they are so versatile – you can customize them with your favorite toppings or enjoy them as is. So why not whip up a batch of these Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares today and treat yourself to a taste of Southern sweetness that will have everyone asking for more!