Illinois Prairie Squares

Background & History

Illinois Prairie Squares are a traditional Midwestern dessert that has its roots in the vast and fertile prairies of Illinois. This recipe brings together the simplicity and heartiness of farm life, where ingredients like corn, wheat, and dairy were staples. Often enjoyed at family gatherings and community picnics, these squares symbolize comfort and homeliness.

The dessert emerged in the early 1900s, a time when local ingredients were used widely, making it a true representation of the agricultural richness of the region. The Illinois Prairie Squares blend flavors that are both simple and comforting, combining cornmeal, molasses, and other readily available ingredients into a unique treat.

Ingredients

• Cornmeal - 1 cup
• All-purpose flour - 1 cup
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Buttermilk - 1 cup
• Eggs - 2 large
• Molasses - 1/2 cup
• Brown sugar - 1/2 cup
• Unsalted butter - 1/4 cup, melted
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Preparing Illinois Prairie Squares is straightforward, reflecting the simplicity of life on the prairies. The process starts with setting up your workstation with all the necessary ingredients.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix together until the dry ingredients are well incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, eggs, molasses, and brown sugar until smooth and fully blended.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Cooking Process

Once the preparation is ready, follow these steps to bake your Prairie Squares:

1. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the squares to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Use a cooking timer to ensure precise baking.
3. Once cooled, cut the dessert into small squares and serve.

Enjoying Illinois Prairie Squares

The best way to enjoy Illinois Prairie Squares is with a warm beverage such as tea or coffee. You can serve these squares on their own as a delightful afternoon snack, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert experience. This dish also pairs well with fresh fruit, bringing a balance between the sweetness of the squares and the tartness of the fruit.

Historically, families would gather around the table to enjoy these squares, sharing stories of their day. Preparing this recipe can invoke the warmth and connection of these times, making it a delightful treat to share with your own family or friends.