Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares: A Timeless Dessert With a Twist of Lemon

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines nostalgia with a fresh twist, look no further than Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares. This classic treat is an irresistible combination of a buttery graham cracker base, a creamy coconut and pecan topping, and a luscious pink lemon icing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy, making it ideal for everything from family gatherings to special occasions.

In this article, we’ll dive into the story behind these squares, explore why they’ve remained a favorite for generations, and guide you step-by-step on how to make your own batch. We’ll also discuss helpful tips, ingredient substitutions, and the best ways to store and serve your Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares.

The Charm of Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

The beauty of Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares lies in their simplicity and versatility. This dessert has been passed down through generations, often made for family holidays, celebrations, or just as a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. The delicate pink icing on top gives these squares an elegant touch, making them not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

What makes these squares truly special is the combination of flavors and textures:

• Graham cracker crust: The buttery, crumbly base creates a perfect foundation that holds up the rich coconut topping.
• Coconut and pecan topping: The coconut adds a chewy, slightly sweet bite, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch.
• Lemon icing: A zingy, pale pink icing made with fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the base and topping.

Whether you’re trying them for the first time or revisiting a cherished family recipe, Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares will never disappoint.

 

 

Key Ingredients for Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

To create these Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. While the recipe is straightforward, the magic lies in using fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to the icing. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:

For the Crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of the squares, providing a sturdy, crumbly foundation. You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs, or crush your own.
• Butter: The butter binds the crumbs together, giving the crust a rich, buttery flavor. It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness.
• Flour: A small amount of flour is added to the crust to help it set and hold together when baked.

For the Topping:

• Sweetened condensed milk: This rich, creamy ingredient adds sweetness and helps bind the coconut and pecans together.
• Shredded coconut: Choose unsweetened coconut to prevent the topping from being overly sweet. Coconut adds both flavor and texture.
• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans provide a nice crunch and complement the coconut’s chewy texture.

For the Icing:

• Butter: The base of the icing, contributing to its smooth texture and richness.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: This adds creaminess to the icing.
• Fresh lemon juice: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. The acidity in the lemon helps balance the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• Icing sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, it sweetens the icing and gives it the smooth consistency needed for spreading.
• Food coloring: A tiny bit of pink food coloring is used to give the icing its signature pink color, making these squares stand out on any dessert tray.

How to Make Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

Making Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares is a breeze once you have your ingredients ready. The recipe is easy to follow and involves just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make them:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Mix the crust ingredients: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, butter, and flour. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan to form a firm base.
2. Bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and bake the crust for 5 minutes. This step helps to set the base and give it a light golden color. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

1. Mix the topping ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and pecans. Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Spread the topping: Once the crust has cooled slightly, spread the coconut mixture evenly over the crust. Ensure the topping is spread out to the edges of the pan.
3. Bake the squares: Increase the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and bake the squares for 20-25 minutes, or until the coconut topping is golden and firm.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Icing

1. Make the icing: While the bars are baking, prepare the lemon icing. In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, heavy cream, and fresh lemon juice. Gradually add the icing sugar, mixing until smooth. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to achieve the desired pale pink shade.
2. Cool the bars: Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
3. Spread the icing: After the bars have cooled, spread the lemon icing evenly over the top of the bars.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once the icing has set, cut the Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy the tropical, buttery, and tangy flavors that make these squares so irresistible.

 

Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

To ensure your Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips and tricks that can make all the difference:

1. Use Fresh Lemon Juice

The key to a truly fresh, vibrant flavor in the icing is using freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice can often taste a bit flat or artificial, so using fresh lemons will bring out the best citrus flavor. A zester or grater can also be used to add some lemon zest to the icing for an extra burst of lemon fragrance.

2. Press the Crust Firmly

When pressing the graham cracker crumb mixture into the pan, ensure it’s pressed down firmly to create a solid base. This will prevent the crust from crumbling when you slice the bars. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the mixture works best.

3. Let the Bars Cool Completely

After baking, it’s essential to let the bars cool completely before adding the lemon icing. This ensures that the icing will set nicely and won’t melt into the warm coconut topping. For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate the bars for 20-30 minutes after they’ve cooled at room temperature.

4. Customize the Topping

Feel free to adjust the coconut and pecans in the topping to suit your tastes. If you prefer a more coconut-forward flavor, you can add more shredded coconut. Alternatively, you can swap the pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds. You could also leave the nuts out entirely for a more coconut-dominant flavor.

5. Watch the Baking Time

Ovens can vary, so be sure to keep an eye on the bars while they bake. The coconut topping should turn golden brown, but avoid overbaking, as the coconut can burn easily. The bars should be firm to the touch when done. If the edges are brown but the center is still soft, the bars may need an extra minute or two.

How to Store and Serve Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

Once you’ve made your Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares, it’s important to know the best way to store and serve them for maximum freshness and flavor.

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store the Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Refrigeration: If you want to keep the squares fresh for a longer period, refrigerate them in an airtight container. They will stay good for up to 1 week in the fridge.
• Freezing: You can freeze these squares if you need to store them for a longer time. Place them in a freezer-safe container, layering between sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Hot Beverage: These squares pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The lemony sweetness of the icing and the crunchy coconut topping make them an ideal afternoon snack or dessert after a meal.
• With Fresh Berries: Serve the Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The natural tartness of the berries complements the sweet coconut and the refreshing lemon icing.
• As Part of a Dessert Tray: If you’re hosting a gathering, Pink Lady Squares make an excellent addition to any dessert tray. Their elegant appearance and tropical flavor will undoubtedly be a hit.

 

Why You Should Make Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares are the perfect blend of sweetness, tartness, and texture. The buttery graham cracker crust forms the perfect base, while the creamy coconut and pecan topping, along with the tangy lemon icing, create an irresistible combination that will leave your guests coming back for more.

These squares are not just a treat for the taste buds—they’re also an attractive dessert to serve at any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a family gathering, or just because you want a special dessert, Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares are sure to impress.

With their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, anyone can make these squares at home. The freshness of lemon and coconut, paired with the crunchy pecans and the light pink icing, make for a delightful dessert that everyone will love.

So why wait? Give this classic recipe a try and enjoy a bite of nostalgia with a modern twist.

Variations and Customizations for Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

While Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares are delicious as is, there’s always room for a bit of creativity! Here are some variations and customizations you can try to make the recipe your own:

1. Change the Nuts

If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can easily swap them for another nut. Consider using walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Each variety will bring a slightly different texture and flavor, making the bars more unique.

2. Add Citrus Zest

For an extra layer of brightness, add some lemon zest to the icing. The zest will enhance the lemon flavor and add a fresh, zesty aroma to the bars.

3. Experiment with Food Coloring

The pink food coloring in the icing gives the squares a beautiful, light tint, but you can experiment with other colors if you want to create a different look. Try lavender, peach, or even yellow for a fresh take on the classic.

4. Make Them Gluten-Free

If you need a gluten-free version, replace the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. You can also ensure that the other ingredients you use, like condensed milk and icing sugar, are certified gluten-free.

5. Try Coconut Flakes Instead of Shredded Coconut

For added texture, you can use coconut flakes instead of shredded coconut in the topping. This will give the bars a chunkier, more substantial texture.

 

Common Questions About Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on your preference. The flavors will even intensify after a day or two!

Q: Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
While sweetened coconut can be used, it will make the bars sweeter. If you prefer a more balanced flavor, it’s best to stick with unsweetened coconut so the coconut doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

Q: What size pan should I use?
This recipe is designed for a 9×9-inch pan. If you prefer thinner squares, you can use a larger pan (such as a 9×13-inch pan), but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly as the bars will bake faster in a larger pan.

Q: Can I freeze these squares?
Yes! These bars freeze wonderfully. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

 

FAQs on Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares

What is the Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares recipe?

The Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares recipe is a classic no-bake dessert made with biscuits, condensed milk, and a sweet pink jelly topping. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing at family gatherings.

Can I make Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares with condensed milk?

Yes! In fact, condensed milk is one of the key ingredients that gives Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares their creamy texture and rich flavor. It blends beautifully with the biscuit base to create that melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

What is the Pink Angel Squares recipe?

Pink Angel Squares are very similar to Pink Lady Squares. Both feature a biscuit base, a creamy condensed milk layer, and a pink jelly or topping. The difference is often just in the name or regional variations.

What is the Pink Ladies Dessert?

The Pink Ladies Dessert usually refers to variations of the classic Pink Lady Squares. Some recipes use marshmallows, others add cream cheese or coconut, but all versions share that signature pink, creamy sweetness.

How is the Old Fashioned Pink Slice recipe different?

The Old Fashioned Pink Slice recipe is a close cousin to Pink Lady Squares. While Pink Slice often has a firmer base and sometimes includes coconut or raspberry jelly, the flavors and nostalgic charm remain very similar.

 

Conclusion on Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares 

In the end, there’s just something so comforting about baking a classic treat that brings back sweet memories. These Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares aren’t just pretty to look at—they’re a perfect balance of nostalgia and flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, sharing with friends, or simply treating yourself, they’re sure to be a delightful favorite. If you’ve been searching for a simple yet impressive dessert that feels timeless, this recipe is definitely worth keeping close. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and let the charm of these Old Fashioned Pink Lady Squares brighten your table and your taste buds.