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–+ servings
Peek-a-Boos
Peek-a-Boos are nostalgic, tender shortbread-style cookie bars with a surprise fruit or almond filling tucked into the center of each scored square. Likely originating from mid-20th-century American kitchens, this treat plays on the playful idea of a "peek-a-boo" center, revealed only once baked and cut. With a buttery vanilla base and a dollop of jam, almond paste, or pie filling, it's a versatile recipe perfect for holidays, potlucks, or afternoon coffee treats. Its charm lies in the simplicity of ingredients paired with the fun of customizable fillings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 squares
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup butter ( or margarine)
  • 1 ½ cup sugar
  • 1 dash salt
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional FIllings:

  • almond paste
  • prepared pie filling ( e.g., cherry, apple)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • Cream together the butter (or margarine) and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in a dash of salt and gradually add the flour. Mix until combined.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

  • Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Prepare Pan

  • Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan.

Step 5: Score the Dough

  • Using a knife or spatula, lightly score the dough into squares (approximately 24 squares).

Step 6: Add Filling

  • In the center of each square, place a small dollop of almond paste or pie filling.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

  • Let cool, then cut along scored lines into individual squares.

Tips

  • Use butter instead of margarine for richer flavor
  • Score the squares before baking so centers stay defined
  • Press the dough firmly so bars hold together after baking
  • Apple, cherry, or apricot pie filling all work well
  • Don’t overfill the centers, just a small spoonful
  • Let cool completely before cutting for clean edges
  • Dust lightly with powdered sugar for serving
  • These freeze well once baked and cooled

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 0.1mgSodium: 75mgPotassium: 8mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 0.1IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg
Keyword bake sale, dessert bars, easy dessert, fruit filling, retro recipe, vintage baking
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