In the heart of Ukraine, where culinary traditions run deep, lies a delectable treat that captures the essence of simplicity and comfort: Ukrainian Apple Squares. These delightful pastries, also known as "yabluchnyi kvadrati" in Ukrainian, are a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and love for home-baked goods. These squares are characterized by their golden-brown crust, flaky layers, and a sweet and tangy apple filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. Embark on a culinary journey as we explore the step-by-step recipes for Ukrainian Apple Squares, including a classic version, a vegan variation, and a gluten-free alternative. Discover the secrets behind the perfect pastry dough, the art of preparing the apple filling, and the techniques for achieving that irresistible golden crust. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventures, these recipes will guide you towards creating a delightful batch of Ukrainian Apple Squares that will warm hearts and satisfy taste buds.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
UKRAINIAN APPLE SQUARES
This elegant apple dessert is particularly rich and suited for holiday occasions. Rich pastry made with butter and sour cream. Half the batter is spread and baked then apple filling is added and topped with the other half of the pastry and baked.
Provided by Olha7397
Categories Bar Cookie
Time 1h5m
Yield 16 squares
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Stir together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut in butter till pieces resemble small peas. Combine eggs, sour cream, and vanilla; add to flour mixture. Stir till well mixed. Spread half of the batter into greased 9 x 9 x 2 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Spread Apple Filling over layer in pan. Carefully spoon remaining batter atop. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. When cool sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into squares. Makes 16.
- FOR THE APPLE FILLING: Peel, core, and finely chop 1 1/2 pounds cooking apples. In a bowl combine the finely chopped apples, 1/2 cup raisins, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 214.7, Fat 9.6, SaturatedFat 5.8, Cholesterol 48, Sodium 103.9, Carbohydrate 30.3, Fiber 1.6, Sugar 16.6, Protein 3
UKRAINIAN APPLE CAKE (YABLUCHNYK)
Here is a delicious cake which is easy to prepare. You can also use this pastry base with pitted cherries, plums, or sliced peaches.
Provided by Olga Drozd
Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Eastern European Russian
Time 40m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly butter an 8 inch square baking dish.
- Sift together 1 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in 1/2 cup of butter until the mixture is crumbly. Stir together the egg with the cream and gently mix into the flour until a soft dough has formed. Press into prepared baking dish. Layer the apples into the dish overlapping, in neat rows. Prepare streusel by mixing the brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Cut in 2 tablespoons butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle over apples.
- Bake in preheated oven until apples have softened, and topping has browned, about 25 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 264.1 calories, Carbohydrate 36.5 g, Cholesterol 50 mg, Fat 12.7 g, Fiber 2.4 g, Protein 2.7 g, SaturatedFat 7.8 g, Sodium 188.5 mg, Sugar 20.5 g
APPLE SQUARES
Apples, nuts and cinnamon make these bars delicious. They hardly last a day at my house!
Provided by BarbiAnn
Categories Desserts Fruit Dessert Recipes Apple Dessert Recipes
Time 55m
Yield 16
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x9 inch pan. Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of white sugar with a wooden spoon until smooth. Stir in the egg and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture until just combined, then stir in the apples and walnuts. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. In a cup or small bowl, stir together the remaining cinnamon and sugar; sprinkle over the top of the bars.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in preheated oven; finished bars should spring back when lightly touched. Cool in the pan, and cut into squares.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 142.8 calories, Carbohydrate 22.1 g, Cholesterol 19.3 mg, Fat 5.7 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 1.8 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 93.8 mg, Sugar 15.2 g
Tips:
- Use a variety of apples. This will give your squares a more complex flavor and texture. Some good options include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn.
- Peel and core your apples before slicing them. This will make them easier to eat and will also help to prevent them from browning.
- Don't overcook your apples. They should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Use a combination of flour and cornstarch in your filling. This will help to thicken the filling and prevent it from becoming runny.
- Don't overmix your dough. Overmixing will make the dough tough.
- Chill your dough before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and will also help to prevent it from shrinking in the oven.
- Bake your squares until they are golden brown. This will ensure that they are cooked through.
- Let your squares cool completely before cutting them. This will help to prevent them from falling apart.
Conclusion:
Ukrainian apple squares are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual gathering to a festive holiday party. With their combination of sweet apples, flaky dough, and creamy filling, these squares are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
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