If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, creamy treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, these Copycat Cadbury Creme Squares might just blow your taste buds away! These sweets are perfect for satisfying that nostalgic craving, especially around Easter. Made with a rich filling encased in a smooth carob shell, they’re an irresistible treat sans chocolate and cream. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into crafting these delectable snacks!
Budget Information
This delightful recipe for Copycat Cadbury Creme Squares will set you back about $10.50 in total, making it a sweet treat that’s easy on the wallet. With roughly 12 squares produced from this recipe, you’re looking at about $0.88 per serving—definitely a budget-friendly indulgence!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it beautifully captures the essence of the beloved classic Cadbury egg without the forbidden ingredients for those on special diets! The creative combination of maple sugar and palm shortening creates a magnificent filling that’s perfectly sweetened and remarkably close to the real thing. The carob shell adds that delightful crunch, allowing you to enjoy these squares guilt-free. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
To unlock the magic of these Copycat Cadbury Creme Squares, you’ll need the following:
- 1 cup maple sugar (around $3.00) – You can also use coconut sugar for a different twist.
- 1/3 cup arrowroot powder (approximately $1.00) – Cornstarch can serve as a handy substitute if needed.
- 1/4 cup honey (roughly $1.50) – Agave syrup can work in its place for a vegan option.
- 1/4 cup palm shortening (about $2.50) – Any vegetable shortening will suffice.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (around $0.50) – Feel free to use almond extract for an unexpected flavor note!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (pennies!) – This is just to enhance the overall sweetness.
- 1/2 cup carob powder (roughly $2.00) – You can replace it with cocoa powder if you’re not concerned about the diet restrictions.
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil (about $1.00) – Substitute with any neutral oil if coconut isn’t your favorite.
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: First things first, we need to create that sweet filling! Grab your trusty food processor and toss in the maple sugar and arrowroot powder. Blend until the sugar reaches a fine, powdery consistency. This step is crucial because it creates that silky mouthfeel we crave!
Step 2: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar mix with honey, palm shortening, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Get your hands in there or use a spatula to mix everything together until you have a rich, smooth fondant. If it feels too gooey, don’t fret! Just sprinkle in a touch more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
Step 3: Now comes the waiting game—transfer that beautiful mixture to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period is essential for firming it up, though if you’re in a rush, the freezer will do the job in a quick 15 minutes!
Step 4: Once that filling is cold and ready to go, pull it out and start shaping it into small squares. Make sure they are half as thick as the wells of your mold—the goal is to ensure they fit snugly without touching the sides. Tuck those precious squares onto a baking sheet and back into the freezer they go while you prepare the shell!
Step 5: For the luscious carob shell, in a bowl, gently stir the carob powder into the melted coconut oil until fully dissolved. This process not only enhances flavor but also creates that beautiful richness we adore!
Step 6: Fill each mold well halfway with your luscious shell mixture. Next, take those frozen fondant squares and place them right atop each well. Using a fork or a toothpick, gently press down, submerging them just beneath the surface of the shell—this prevents them from floating up when we finish filling.
Step 7: Finally, refrigerate your assembled squares until they are completely set. If after 30 minutes they’re still a bit gooey, not to worry; just serve them directly from the freezer for an extra cold treat!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Total Fats: 7g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 10mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
These squares store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, try placing them in the freezer. Just pop one out when you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, and they’ll be ready to enjoy again in no time!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent squares chilled, and watch as friends and family swoon at your kitchen magic! They make a splendid addition to any springtime gathering or could even serve as a creative centerpiece for your Easter dessert table. Pair them with fresh berries for a beautiful contrast and a burst of flavor!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Adjust the sweetness or flavoring according to your preferences. If you want to take them up a notch, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top before they set for a delightful sweet-salty crunch. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use real chocolate instead of carob? Absolutely! If you’re not following any dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute with your favorite chocolate for a more traditional flavor.
How do I know when the squares are ready to eat? Once they are set and firm to the touch, you can dive in! The longer you chill, the firmer they will be.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! In fact, they’re perfect for making ahead of time as they store well in the fridge or freezer.
How can I adjust the sweetness in the recipe? You can play around with the amount of maple sugar added. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the quantity of sugar in the filling.
Do I have to use the molds for shaping? While molds make it easier to shape, if you don’t have them, simply form the fondant into squares with your hands, and you’ll still have delicious results!
