Whole Grain Jam Squares

There’s something about Whole Grain Jam Squares that brings back fond memories of cozy afternoons spent baking with family. I remember the sweet aroma of jam bubbling while the squares baked away in the oven. These delightful treats are perfect for indulging your sweet tooth without the guilt, as they incorporate wholesome ingredients that make each bite satisfying. Whether you are enjoying them with a cup of tea or packing them into lunchboxes, these jam squares never fail to bring a smile to my face. They are a wonderful way to use up your favorite fruit jams, and it’s hard to resist the warm, gooey filling that oozes from within. Let me share why these Whole Grain Jam Squares have a special place in my heart.

Shopping List for Whole Grain Jam Squares

Gathering the ingredients for Whole Grain Jam Squares is simple, and it allows you to embrace the goodness of wholesome baking. Each ingredient has a role to play in creating these delectable squares.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature – The base for richness and flavor.
• 1 large egg – A binder that helps hold the ingredients together.
• 1/2 cup honey – Adds natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that warm, comforting flavor.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – A touch of nutty sweetness.
• 1 1/2 cups spelt flour, or whole wheat flour – Provides the whole grain goodness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the squares rise a bit.
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that adds depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats – Adds texture and chewiness.
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds – For crunch and flavor.
• 1/2 cup fruit jams of choice – The star that makes these squares irresistible!

How to Make Whole Grain Jam Squares

Making Whole Grain Jam Squares is a delightful process! Follow these steps closely to achieve the perfect treat that everyone will love.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. It’s essential to ensure the oven is ready before placing your squares in to bake, for even cooking.
2. Grease a brownie bar pan, or opt for a standard 8×8 inch square baking pan. This will prevent the squares from sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with a beater until it’s pale and fluffy. This step adds air, which is crucial for texture.
4. Add the large egg, honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the spelt flour with the baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will provide your squares with the right rise and flavor.
6. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir to combine until there are no dry clumps.
7. Stir in the old-fashioned oats and sliced almonds until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough should feel fairly stiff at this point.
8. Divide the dough in half and form twelve 1-inch sized balls from each half of the dough, totaling twenty-four balls.
9. Press twelve of the balls of dough into the cavity of the bar pan. Leave a little space around the edges.
10. Spread your choice of fruit jam on top of the dough, taking care to leave a border around the edges to prevent spillage.
11. Flatten the remaining balls of dough and lay them on top of the jam squares. Gently press down around the edges to seal them well.
12. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. Stay close and keep an eye on them!
13. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the squares sit for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. Store in an airtight container where they will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Enjoy!

Helpful Notes about Whole Grain Jam Squares

Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience with Whole Grain Jam Squares!

• Storage: To ensure freshness, store your squares in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze these squares. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before storing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: These squares pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Variations: Try adding dried fruits or chocolate chips to the dough for added flavor!
• Serving size: Each square makes a satisfying snack. Cut them into smaller pieces if serving to kids!

What Complements This Whole Grain Jam Squares

• Perfect for Breakfast: Serve Whole Grain Jam Squares with yogurt or fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast.
• Great for Snacks: They’re excellent to take on the go, perfect for school lunches or road trips.
• Seasonal Treats: Use seasonal fruit jams to celebrate flavors throughout the year.
• Picnic Favorite: Always a hit at picnics, these squares are easy to transport and serve.
• Baking Together: Involve kids in the baking process; they love pressing down the balls of dough!
• Ideal for Sharing: Great for gatherings or potlucks, everyone will want a piece!

FAQ

Conclusion

Whole Grain Jam Squares are truly a special treat that combines wholesome ingredients with sweet fruit goodness. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy snack or a lovely dessert to share with friends. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple and satisfying it is. Grab your favorite jams, gather your ingredients, and indulge in baking these delicious squares today!

Whole Grain Jam Squares

The ultimate comfort food, Whole Grain Jam Squares are a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients and sweet fruit jams. These easy weeknight treats will satisfy your cravings while keeping it nutritious. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert, why not make them tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract quality pure
• 1 teaspoon almond extract quality pure
• 1 1/2 cups spelt flour or einkorn or whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup fruit jams of choice use sugar-free for lower calories

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. It's essential to ensure the oven is ready before placing your squares in to bake, for even cooking.
2. Grease a brownie bar pan, or opt for a standard 8x8 inch square baking pan. This will prevent the squares from sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with a beater until it’s pale and fluffy. This step adds air, which is crucial for texture.
4. Add the large egg, honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the spelt flour with the baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will provide your squares with the right rise and flavor.
6. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir to combine until there are no dry clumps.
7. Stir in the old-fashioned oats and sliced almonds until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough should feel fairly stiff at this point.
8. Divide the dough in half and form twelve 1-inch sized balls from each half of the dough, totaling twenty-four balls.
9. Press twelve of the balls of dough into the cavity of the bar pan. Leave a little space around the edges.
10. Spread your choice of fruit jam on top of the dough, taking care to leave a border around the edges to prevent spillage.
11. Flatten the remaining balls of dough and lay them on top of the jam squares. Gently press down around the edges to seal them well.
12. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. Stay close and keep an eye on them!
13. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the squares sit for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. Store in an airtight container where they will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Enjoy!

Notes

If using an 8x8 inch square baking pan, press half of the dough onto the bottom, spread the jam over, then gently press the other half of the dough on top. Bake as directed. Let it cool and then cut into squares.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.