Congo Squares Recipe

The Congo Squares recipe is a delicious dessert that combines the best elements of chocolate chip cookies and blondies.

These chewy bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Congo Squares recipe is made with simple ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and chocolate chips, making them a great treat for any occasion.

Growing up, my favorite memories include baking these sweet squares with my family.

The process is quick and rewarding, taking only about 40 minutes from start to finish.

Whether you want to enjoy the Congo Squares recipe on your own or impress guests at a gathering, these tasty bars will surely delight everyone.

In this blog post, I will share a tried-and-true Congo Squares recipe, along with tips and variations to make it your own. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Congo Squares Recipe

The Congo Squares recipe is a delicious treat that I always enjoy making. They blend the rich flavors of brown sugar and chocolate chips, which makes each bite sweet and satisfying.

These cookie bars are easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and shortening, I can whip them up in no time.

I love the texture of my Congo Squares recipe. They are chewy and have a nice mix of gooey chocolate and crunchy walnuts, if you choose to add them. This combination keeps them interesting and enjoyable.

Congo Squares are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a school bake sale, or just a sweet snack at home, the Congo Squares recipe fits right in. Plus, they are a fun way to share dessert with friends and family.

Here’s what I appreciate most:

• Quick to make: I often have them ready in just 40 minutes.
• Versatile: I can customize them with different mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
• Portable: They’re easy to pack for picnics or lunchboxes.

These cookie bars are definitely a favorite in my kitchen. I love how they bring comfort and joy with their simple yet delightful taste.

What Makes This Congo Squares Recipe Special

This Congo squares recipe is a delightful treat that stands out for several reasons. First, they are a version of blondies, with a rich, buttery flavor that many enjoy.

The main ingredients, like brown sugar and shortening, create a chewy texture that melts in your mouth. This unique combination offers a sweet taste, setting them apart from regular cookies.

I appreciate the versatility of this Congo Squares recipe. By adding mix-ins, I can customize the flavor. Some popular options include:

• Chopped walnuts: These add a nice crunch.
• Chocolate chips: They bring sweetness and richness to every bite.
• Coconut flakes: For those who enjoy a tropical twist.

Using room temperature ingredients is another tip that makes this Congo Squares recipe special. It helps everything mix together smoothly, producing a lighter final product.

In addition, the eggs are beaten in one at a time, which encourages a fluffy texture. I find that not overmixing the batter is key, as it prevents the squares from becoming tough.

This Congo squares recipe also bakes beautifully, creating a golden top that is visually appealing. These traits combined make them a beloved choice for gatherings or a simple dessert at home. I enjoy the balance of flavors and textures that this Congo squares recipe brings to the table.

Cooking Equipment Needed

To make Congo Squares, I find it helpful to have the right tools on hand. Here’s a list of the essential equipment I use:

• Mixing Bowls: Use at least two bowls. One for the wet ingredients and one for the dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking. I like to have both dry and liquid measuring cups.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: A whisk works well for mixing by hand. An electric mixer makes it easier, especially for creaming sugar and butter.
• Rubber Spatula: This is great for folding in ingredients gently.
• Sifter: While not always necessary, a sifter can help mix the flour, baking powder, and salt more evenly.
• Baking Pan: I use a rectangular baking pan. It’s best to grease it with butter or non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. This ensures that the squares bake evenly.

With these tools, I can easily whip up a delicious batch of Congo Squares. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Cooking Instructions

To make Congo Squares, I start by preheating my oven to 350°F. I then grease a baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Lining the pan with parchment paper helps with easy removal later.

Next, I combine 2/3 cup of shortening and 2-1/4 cups of packed light brown sugar in a bowl. I blend them until smooth.

After this, I add three large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

In another bowl, I sift together 2-3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2-1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Once sifted, I gently fold this dry mixture into the sugar and egg blend. I add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.

After everything is combined, I pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. It’s important to spread it evenly to ensure that it bakes uniformly.

Finally, I place the pan in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. I check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the Congo Squares are ready.

Once baked, I let them cool before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your homemade treats!

Cooking Tips

When I make Congo Squares, I pay attention to a few key details to get the best results.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: I find that using room temperature eggs and shortening helps create a smoother batter. It makes mixing easier and results in a better texture.

Choose Quality Chocolate: For flavor, I like using semi-sweet chocolate chips. They melt well and give the bars a rich taste. Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts for added crunch.

Try Different Nuts: Walnuts are my go-to, but I’ve also enjoyed adding pecans or hazelnuts. Chopping them finely helps distribute the nutty flavor throughout the bars.

Don’t Overmix: Once I add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, I stir gently. Overmixing can make the bars tough, so I just mix until everything is combined.

Check for Doneness: I set my timer for about 25-30 minutes. When the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean, it’s time to take them out. They will continue to cook a bit while cooling.

Cool Before Cutting: After baking, I let the Congo Squares cool in the pan for a bit. Once they are at room temperature, I cut into squares for clean edges.

Using these tips helps me create delicious Congo Squares every time. Enjoy your baking!

Ingredients Needed For The Congo Squares Recipe

Salted Butter
Brown Sugar
Eggs
All-purpose Flour
Baking Powder
Salt
Dark Chocolate Chips
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

Instructions For Preparing The Congo Squares Recipe

Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients
Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then mix in brown sugar with a hand mixer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition.

Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, scraping the bowl as needed.

Fold in Chocolate Chips
Mix in dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The batter will be thick.

Bake and Cool
Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned. For a firmer texture, bake a few minutes longer. Let cool, then cut into squares.

FAQs For The Congo Squares Recipe

Question: What are the main ingredients in a traditional Congo Squares Recipe?

A: A traditional Congo Squares recipe typically includes butter, brown sugar, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and chopped nuts like walnuts. These ingredients combine to create a rich, chewy bar with a texture similar to blondies.

Question: How do I prepare the batter for the Congo Squares Recipe?

A: To prepare the batter for the Congo Squares recipe, start by creaming together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—then gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts before spreading the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Question: What is the recommended baking time and temperature for the Congo Squares Recipe?

A: The Congo Squares recipe is typically baked at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should be set and lightly browned, while the center remains slightly gooey. It’s important not to overbake to maintain the desired chewy texture.

Question: Can I customize the Congo Squares Recipe with different mix-ins?

A: Yes, the Congo Squares recipe is quite versatile and can be customized with various mix-ins. In addition to or instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can incorporate milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even dried fruits. Nuts like pecans or almonds can also be used in place of walnuts, depending on your preference.

Question: How should I store Congo Squares after baking?

A: After baking, allow the Congo Squares to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Congo Squares Recipe

Buttery, chewy dessert bars loaded with chocolate chips and brown sugar, a delightful fusion of Congolese and American flavors.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine African

Servings 20

Calories 317 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup Butter salted
• 2 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 3 eggs large (room temperature)
• 2 3/4 cup All-purpose Flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips dark
• 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet

Instructions

 

Prepare the Baking Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then mix in brown sugar with a hand mixer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition.

Add the Dry Ingredients

• Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, scraping the bowl as needed.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

• Mix in dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The batter will be thick.

Bake and Cool

• Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned. For a firmer texture, bake a few minutes longer. Let cool, then cut into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 20gCalories: 317kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 43mgSodium: 183mgPotassium: 114mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 34gVitamin A: 248IUCalcium: 71mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Congo Squares

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