Strawberry Squares
Description
These Strawberry Squares are a nostalgic treat that combines a crunchy graham cracker base with a luscious, creamy strawberry filling. The recipe uses a blend of fresh crushed strawberries and strawberry gelatin for a vibrant color and authentic berry flavor, balanced by the tang of lemon juice. Topped with sweetened whipped cream and reserved crumbs, these squares offer a delightful texture contrast. They are perfect for potlucks, summer gatherings, or as a sweet ending to a family dinner. Easy to assemble and requiring no baking for the filling, this dessert is both impressive and simple to prepare.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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In a bowl, mix graham wafer crumbs and melted butter until combined.
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Reserve 1/2 cup of the crumb mixture for topping.
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Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch pan.
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Bake crust for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
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In a saucepan, combine crushed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring until hot and sugar is dissolved.
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Add strawberry jello powder to the hot strawberry mixture.
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Bring to a boil, then immediately remove from heat and stir until jello is fully dissolved.
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Let the jello mixture cool to room temperature.
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Whip the whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cooled jello mixture.
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Pour the jello-cream mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
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In a separate bowl, mix the remaining whipped cream with a little extra sugar and vanilla extract.
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Spread this sweetened whipped cream over the jello layer.
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Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs evenly over the top.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
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Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 556.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 29.8g46%
- Saturated Fat 17.1g86%
- Cholesterol 136.5mg46%
- Sodium 2152.4mg90%
- Total Carbohydrate 33.5g12%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 32.8g
- Protein 37.9g76%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure the crust is completely cool before adding the jello mixture to prevent melting.
For a smoother filling, you can strain the cooked strawberry mixture to remove seeds before adding the jello.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen unsweetened strawberries if out of season; thaw and drain excess liquid first.