Table of Contents

Chocolate Oh Henry Squares: A Nostalgic Treat

The memory is so vivid: the summer air thick with humidity, the scent of freshly cut grass, and the unmistakable aroma of chocolate wafting from Grandma’s kitchen window. It was a simpler time, where afternoons were spent building forts and evenings were reserved for family. But the highlight? Grandma’s Chocolate Oh Henry Squares. They weren’t just a dessert; they were a symbol of love, comfort, and the magic that only a grandmother’s touch could create. Each bite was a journey back to those carefree days, a reminder of the simple joys that life offered.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 36 squares
Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

20 whole graham crackers (or enough to make bottom layer and top layer)
¾ cup (6 ounces) butter or margarine
⅔ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup low-fat milk
⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup chopped walnuts

Icing

1 ¼ cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
¼ cup cocoa powder
5 teaspoons hot coffee

Equipment Needed

9×9 inch baking pan
Saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Small mixing bowl
Electric mixer (optional, for icing)
Knife or pizza cutter

Instructions

Begin by preparing your baking pan. Line a 9×9 inch pan with whole graham crackers, carefully trimming them as needed to fit snugly against the bottom. This forms the base for your delicious squares. Set the pan aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter (or margarine), brown sugar, and low-fat milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The goal is to dissolve the sugar completely and create a smooth, homogenous mixture.
Once the mixture has reached a boil, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the hot mixture. Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Now, it’s time to add the texture and flavor. Pour in the graham cracker crumbs and the chopped walnuts into the chocolate mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly combined and coated in the chocolate mixture.
Carefully pour the chocolate-graham-walnut mixture over the layer of graham crackers in the prepared pan. Spread it evenly to ensure each square has a consistent filling.
Cover the filling with another layer of whole graham crackers, again trimming them as needed to fit snugly and completely cover the chocolate mixture. This top layer creates the “lid” for your squares.
Allow the assembled squares to cool completely at room temperature before adding the frosting. This usually takes about an hour. You can also refrigerate them for a quicker cooling process.
While the squares are cooling, prepare the icing. In a small mixing bowl, combine the icing sugar, butter (or margarine), and cocoa powder.
Add the hot coffee to the icing mixture. Beat all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. If the icing is too thick, add a tiny bit more hot coffee (a teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer, use an electric mixer for a smoother icing.
Once the squares are completely cooled, spread the icing evenly over the top layer of graham crackers. Make sure to cover the entire surface for a beautiful, chocolatey finish.
Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Allow the squares to stand for a few hours (or even overnight) before cutting. This allows the graham crackers to soften from the moisture of the filling and icing, making them easier to cut and more pleasant to eat.
Finally, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the squares into 36 equal pieces.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
Toasting the walnuts: Briefly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor. Be careful not to burn them!
Softening the butter: Ensure your butter is softened for the icing. This will result in a smoother, easier-to-spread frosting.
Pressing the graham cracker layers: Gently press the graham cracker layers into the pan and into the filling to ensure they adhere well.
Clean cuts: Use a warm knife for cleaner cuts. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Chocolate Oh Henry Squares are best served chilled or at room temperature. They are perfect as an afternoon treat, a dessert after dinner, or a sweet addition to any gathering.

Storage: Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares (without the icing) for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before adding the icing and serving.

Nutritional Information

Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	152 kcal	8%
Total Fat	8.6g	13%
Saturated Fat	3.7g	19%
Cholesterol	13mg	4%
Sodium	102mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	18.3g	6%
Dietary Fiber	0.7g	3%
Sugars	12.4g	N/A
Protein	1.6g	3%

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds or chopped pretzels.
Vegan: Use vegan butter and chocolate chips, and substitute the low-fat milk with plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
Different Extracts: Add a drop or two of vanilla or almond extract to the icing for a different flavor profile.
Peanut Butter Variation: Swirl peanut butter into the chocolate filling for a peanut butter and chocolate delight.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of low-fat milk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk, whole milk, or even cream for a richer flavor. The recipe is flexible in that regard.

Q: How do I prevent the graham crackers from becoming too soggy?
A: Make sure the squares are completely cooled before covering and allowing the graham crackers to soften. Also, don’t over-saturate the filling mixture.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together and the graham crackers to soften perfectly.

Q: My icing is too thick. What should I do?
A: Add a teaspoon of hot coffee at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid.

Q: Can I freeze these squares?
A: Yes, but it’s best to freeze them before adding the icing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then frost.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Oh Henry Squares are more than just a recipe; they’re a journey back to simpler times, a celebration of family, and a testament to the power of a homemade treat. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories with it. Don’t be afraid to add your personal touch, experiment with variations, and most importantly, share them with those you love. Happy baking!

Chocolate Oh Henry Squares Recipe