Derby Squares with Walnuts and Chocolate Chips

Makes 16 squares

This recipe is based on my version of a derby pie, Walnut and Chocolate Chip Brownie Pie, which is in the similar and related recipes. The filling for that pie is so good, I decided it really does not need a crust. So, sometimes I bake it as a cake and serve it as squares or bars. It is delicious, quicker and easier than making pastry crust, and serves more people than a pie, so it is perfect for a party or potluck. It is not intended that this cake replace the pie, because it is delicious with a crust, but it makes a completely different presentation.

Ingredients

• Butter or cooking spray
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, preferably unsalted, melted
• 1 cup chopped toasted walnuts (see notes below)
• 1 cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350° F. Generously butter or spray an 8-inch square cake pan. Beat eggs lightly in a medium bowl. Stir in the sugar, then the flour until well combined. Add the vanilla and stir again. Stir in the melted butter until combined. Stir in the walnuts and chocolate chips. Pour into prepared pan and bake for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until tester inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Place on rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. Cut into 2-inch squares. Serve warm or room temperature, with or without whipped cream or ice cream.

Notes: Toast the walnuts in a 350° oven until lightly browned, about 10 minutes, being very careful not to get too browned. This can also be accomplished using a skillet over a medium burner, tossing often. Cool before using.