Are you craving a sweet treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than these delightful Chess Squares! Inspired by the legendary Paula Deen, this recipe is a perfect blend of buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and a sprinkle of chocolate. It's the ultimate homemade dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your guests. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed success, offering a simple and quick way to create a truly delicious and memorable treat. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor with this classic dessert!
Ingredients:
This recipe uses simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your pantry. Making this dessert from scratch is easier than you think!
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
Let's get baking! Follow these simple steps to create these amazing Chess Squares.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix!
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer
While the crust is cooling, prepare the caramel. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble the Squares
Pour the warm caramel evenly over the cooled crust. Let it cool completely.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Chess Squares for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer caramel flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Add a pinch of salt to the caramel for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate.
- To make these ahead of time, prepare the squares a day or two in advance. They store well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Sugar: Approximately 30-35g
This easy recipe delivers a delicious, homemade dessert perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick dinner idea finisher, a satisfying treat for a busy weeknight, or an impressive addition to your next gathering. These Chess Squares are sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy the baking process and the incredible taste of this classic dessert.