There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen. Butter Tart Squares are a delightful treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons. These squares are not just a dessert; they’re a quick solution for a busy day or a sweet way to impress your loved ones. With their rich, gooey filling and buttery crust, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Butter Tart Squares
Butter Tart Squares are the ultimate dessert for anyone who craves something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of a buttery crust and a rich, gooey filling is simply irresistible. Plus, you can customize them with nuts or raisins, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise. Trust me, these squares will become a favorite!
Ingredients for Butter Tart Squares
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Butter Tart Squares. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crust, giving it that perfect texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the rich filling.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show! It creates a rich, buttery flavor in the crust.
Brown sugar: This gives the filling its deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Corn syrup: Helps to bind the filling and adds that gooey texture we all love.
Large eggs: Essential for setting the filling, giving it that perfect consistency.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, feel free to toss these in!
Raisins (optional): These add a chewy sweetness, but you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free version.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Butter Tart Squares
Creating Butter Tart Squares is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Butter Tart Squares bake evenly. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish. Grease a 9×13-inch dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to cut those squares!
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix them well to ensure even distribution. Next, add the softened unsalted butter. Blend everything together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly texture is what will form the base of your delicious squares.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Now, press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s packed down nicely. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect buttery flavor!
Step 4: Make the Filling
While the crust is baking, it’s time to whip up the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar, corn syrup, large eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. This filling is what makes Butter Tart Squares so irresistible, so take your time to get it just right!
Step 5: Combine and Pour
If you’re using optional ingredients like chopped pecans or raisins, stir them into the filling now. Once everything is well combined, pour the filling over the hot crust. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with that gooey goodness.
Step 6: Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden top without overbaking!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time helps the squares set properly. For the best results, chill them in the refrigerator for an hour before cutting into squares. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Tips for Success
Use room temperature butter for easier blending into the crust.
Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps the squares set perfectly.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of maple extract to the filling.
Experiment with different nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal, but any similar-sized pan will work.
Mixing bowls: Use medium and large bowls for mixing crust and filling.
Whisk: A whisk is perfect for blending the filling, but a fork will do.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: Great for spreading the filling evenly over the crust.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Butter Tart Squares: Swap out the nuts for chocolate chips for a sweeter, indulgent twist.
Maple Butter Tart Squares: Add a tablespoon of pure maple syrup to the filling for a rich, Canadian flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these squares suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs to create a plant-based version of this classic treat.
Fruit-Infused Squares: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fruity twist that adds a burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Butter Tart Squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the sweetness.
Enjoy alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
FAQs about Butter Tart Squares
As you embark on your journey to create these delightful Butter Tart Squares, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I make Butter Tart Squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! These squares store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time for unexpected guests.
What can I substitute for corn syrup?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use maple syrup or honey. Both will add a unique flavor while still providing that gooey texture we love in Butter Tart Squares.
Can I use different nuts in the filling?
Definitely! While pecans and walnuts are popular choices, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own flavor and crunch to the squares.
How do I know when my Butter Tart Squares are done baking?
Look for a slightly puffed filling that’s set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep that gooey texture!
Are Butter Tart Squares gluten-free?
They can be! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious Canadian treat!
Final Thoughts
Butter Tart Squares are more than just a dessert; they’re a slice of nostalgia that brings warmth to any gathering. Each bite is a delightful blend of buttery goodness and sweet, gooey filling that can transport you back to simpler times. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these squares have a way of making everything feel a little brighter. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of baking fill your kitchen. Trust me, the joy of sharing these treats is truly unbeatable!
Delicious and sweet Butter Tart Squares that are easy to make and perfect for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup corn syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well.
Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Stir in the chopped nuts and raisins if using.
Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and pour the filling mixture over the hot crust, spreading it evenly.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
Allow the squares to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of maple extract to the filling.
You can also substitute the nuts with chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
