It’s apple season again, which means there’s a wide variety of plump, juicy apples from which to choose right now. Some prefer the hard and tart variety, while others enjoy the softer, sweeter variety.
While you might have a personal favorite when it comes to biting into a fresh apple, if you’re using the fruit in pies, cakes or other desserts, it doesn’t really matter which kind you choose. For example, this recipe for Apple Pecan Dessert Squares, which is quick and easy to make, works well with any type you may have on hand.
The apples and cinnamon provide a moist, rich base, while the nutty, caramel, baked-on topping only adds to this delicious dessert. A dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping adds that final touch!
APPLE PECAN DESSERT SQUARES
Base:
2 cups flour
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup margarine or butter
2 cups (about 2 medium) chopped, peeled apples
1 egg, slightly beaten
Topping:
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons margarine or butter
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed or whipped cream
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-inch square or oblong pan with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon and baking soda; mix well.
With pastry blender or fork, cut in 3/4 cup margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in apples and egg, mix well. Press mixture firmly in bottom of sprayed pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until puffed in center.
Meanwhile, in small saucepan, combine all topping ingredients except whipped topping. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil, stirring frequently. Boil 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Remove base from oven. Drizzle hot topping over warm base; spread evenly. Return to oven; bake an additional 4 to 6 minutes or until topping is bubbly. Cool 1 1/2 hours or until completely cooled. With serrated knife, cut into squares and serve with whipped topping or whipped cream. Makes 9 servings.
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Looking for a recipe you can’t find? Email me at kbrotherton42@gmail.com and I’ll see if I have it.
