Fruit Cocktail Squares

Recipe View 5 mins Prepare the Fruit: Drain the fruit cocktail thoroughly, reserving 1/3 cup of the syrup. To the reserved fruit cocktail syrup, add the 1 tablespoon of maraschino cherry juice. Finely chop the drained fruit and set aside. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 7 mins Incorporate Wet and Dry: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the fruit cocktail syrups, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. (7 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Add Fruit and Coconut: Gently fold in the chopped fruit, coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 35 mins Bake: Spread the dough evenly into a greased 9-inch square baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. (35 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Cool and Serve: Let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. If desired, sprinkle sifted confectioners' sugar over the top for an added touch of sweetness. (30 minutes)