Are you ready to embark on a journey of indulgence with a quintessential Southern dessert? Look no further than these irresistible Brown Sugar Pie Squares. Bursting with rich, caramelized flavors and boasting a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, these squares are the epitome of Southern comfort. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these indulgent squares are sure to impress. Join us as we delve into the delightful world of Southern baking and learn how to create these delectable Brown Sugar Pie Squares.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 11/16 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
For the Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whipping cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a food processor, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse briefly to mix.
- Add the chilled butter cubes to the food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the whipping cream to the mixture, whisking constantly until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Once the crust has baked and cooled slightly, pour the filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Brown Sugar Pie Squares to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled, and enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors of this Southern delicacy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Nuts: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before baking.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor profile of the filling by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Whipped Cream: Serve each square with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for this recipe? A: While light brown sugar adds a rich caramel flavor to these squares, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor or granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.
Q: Can I make these squares ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the crust and filling separately ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the squares in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Q: Can I freeze these Brown Sugar Pie Squares? A: Yes, these squares freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individual squares or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making the crust from scratch? A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought pie crust for convenience. Simply press the crust into the baking dish and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of these Brown Sugar Pie Squares:
- Crust: Substitute almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
- Sweetener: Replace the brown sugar and granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Cream: Use heavy cream or coconut cream instead of whipping cream for a lower carb option.
In conclusion, these Southern Brown Sugar Pie Squares are a delightful blend of sweet, rich flavors and buttery goodness. Whether enjoyed as a dessert for special occasions or as a comforting treat on a cozy evening, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you craving more. With their simple preparation and irresistible taste, they are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and indulge in the deliciousness of these Southern-inspired treats!
Share your experience with this recipe and any creative variations you try. Happy baking!
