Strawberry Rhubarb Chewy Fruit Squares
Strawberry Rhubarb Chewy Fruit Squares
Savor the taste of summer with these delightful Strawberry Rhubarb Chewy Fruit Squares. This recipe perfectly balances the sweet notes of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, all captured in a soft, chewy candy format that mimics high-quality fruit leathers. Utilizing real fruit puree, these squares deliver an intense, natural fruit flavor enhanced by the precise amount of sugar. Their pleasingly pliable texture makes them ideal for snacking or tucking into lunchboxes. Homemade preparation allows for customizable sweetness and fruit intensity, ensuring a superior taste experience. Enjoy these chewy squares as a fantastic way to preserve seasonal flavors and indulge in a wholesome, fruit-packed treat that is both invigorating and delicious.
- Preparation time
- 25 min
- Cooking time
- 30 min
- Total time
- 1 hr 15 min
- Servings
- 64
Instructions
Prepare the Fruit Base
- 1Combine the pureed strawberries and chopped rhubarb in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb is softened and mashed, about 10-15 minutes.
- 2Strain the fruit mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids. You should have about 1.5 cups of fruit liquid.
Cook the Fruit Squares
- 1In a separate bowl, whisk together the pectin with 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Set aside.
- 2In a large saucepan, combine the strained fruit liquid, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- 3Add the pectin mixture to the boiling fruit liquid. Continue to boil, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- 4Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. It should reach about 220°F (104°C) on a candy thermometer.
Set and Serve
- 1Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
- 2Pour the hot fruit mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- 3Refrigerate the fruit mixture for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- 4Once firm, lift the fruit slab out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into desired square shapes using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- 5Optionally, dust the squares lightly with granulated sugar. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 40 kcal
- Protein
- 0 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Carbs
- 10 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 kcal |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
Tips
- Ensure your rhubarb is finely chopped for easy pureeing with the strawberries.
- Using a candy thermometer is recommended for achieving the perfect chewy consistency.
- These chewy fruit squares are a delightful treat for packed lunches or an afternoon pick-me-up.