Raisin Squares Italian Bakery Style

May 10, 2023May 10, 20230 15
Homemade Raisin Squares with an Italian Bakery Twist
in Bakery

Prep

25 min

Cook

12 min

Ready In

37 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 cup lard , room temperature
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 large whole egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
milk
flour , for rolling dough
3 cups boiling water
3 1/2 cups raisins , washed
1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
375
Sugar
20g
Fat
14g
Raisin squares are a classic pastry that can be found in bakeries all around the world. This particular recipe is an Italian variation that incorporates a filling made of raisins and lemon juice. The dough is made with lard, which gives these squares a distinct texture and flavor that is hard to achieve with other types of fat. These squares are perfect for a sweet breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert. They go well with a cup of tea or coffee and can be enjoyed both warm and cold.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, cream together lard, sugar, egg, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
2.In another bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt and stir together.
3.Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture until blended.
4.Add enough milk to make a rather soft dough, then turn onto a lightly floured board to roll out into rectangles about 1/8 inch in thickness.
5.For the filling, add raisins, sugar, flour, salt, and fresh lemon juice to boiling water. Cook it for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6.Spread a layer of cooled filling over half of the rolled out dough, leaving a margin of about 1/2 inch around the edge.
7.Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press down the edges lightly to seal.
8.Trim the edges of the rolled dough and cut into squares.
9.Place the squares on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375F for 10-12 minutes or until lightly brown on the edges.

PROS

These raisin squares are a delightful treat with a great balance of sweetness and tartness.
They are perfect for any occasion, as they are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

CONS

These raisin squares contain lard, which is high in saturated fats that can increase cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
They also contain a significant amount of sugar, which can lead to weight gain and high blood sugar levels if not consumed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While these raisin squares are not particularly healthy, raisins themselves are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can support digestive health, lower cholesterol levels, and regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, the lemon juice used in the filling contains antioxidants that can protect against cell damage and inflammation in the body.

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