Description
Craving something rich, buttery, and indulgent? These *Butter Tart Squares* are the ultimate treat. With a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust and a gooey caramelized filling, this easy dessert captures all the nostalgic charm of the classic Canadian butter tart — without the fuss of shaping individual pastries. Perfect for quick breakfast bars, party trays, or cozy evening desserts, this easy recipe is a must-try for fans of sweet food ideas and indulgent, yet easy dinner or snack recipes. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or storing a stash for yourself, these squares bring joy in every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 3/4 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter with sugar until fluffy. Add flour and salt. Mix until crumbly.
3. Press crust mixture evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
4. While crust bakes, whisk eggs until frothy in a clean bowl. Add brown sugar and whisk until smooth.
5. Stir in melted butter, flour, vanilla, vinegar, maple syrup (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
6. Fold in raisins or pecans if using.
7. Pour filling over hot crust. Return pan to oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until top is golden and center jiggles slightly.
8. Cool completely in pan. For best results, chill for 2 hours or overnight before slicing into squares.
Notes
Always chill the bars before slicing to get neat, clean cuts.
Don’t overbake — the center should still jiggle slightly when it comes out of the oven.
If using maple syrup, opt for pure maple syrup for the best depth of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: butter tart squares, easy dessert, holiday bars, quick baking, Canadian desserts, food ideas, easy recipe