Butter Tart Squares
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Butter Tart Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional butter tart, offering a sweet and gooey filling atop a flaky crust.
Butter Tart Squares are a beloved dessert that combine the rich, sweet flavor of butter tarts with the ease of a bar format. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You'll Love These Butter Tart Squares
- Rich and gooey filling that melts in your mouth
- Flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the filling
- Easy to cut and serve, perfect for parties
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Butter Tart Squares are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a casual get-together, these squares are sure to impress your guests. Their sweet, gooey filling paired with the flaky crust makes them a delightful treat that complements any dessert table. Plus, they are easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your friends and family.
These squares are a great alternative to traditional butter tarts, especially for those who prefer a more manageable dessert that is easy to serve. Instead of dealing with individual tarts, you can cut these squares into bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for guests to grab and enjoy. Their rich flavor and appealing texture are bound to make them a hit!
Tips for the Best Butter Tart Squares
To ensure your Butter Tart Squares turn out perfectly every time, consider using fresh ingredients. Fresh eggs and high-quality butter can make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your filling. Additionally, if you choose to add nuts, opt for toasted pecans or walnuts to enhance their flavor. Toasting brings out the natural oils in the nuts, elevating the overall taste of your dessert.
Another helpful tip is to allow the squares to cool completely before cutting them. This helps the filling set properly, ensuring clean, professional-looking slices. If you find the filling is still a bit runny after baking, don't worry! As the squares cool, they will firm up, giving you that perfect gooey texture that everyone loves.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once baked and cooled, Butter Tart Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving; this will enhance their flavor and texture, making them even more enjoyable.
For a special touch, consider serving your Butter Tart Squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy addition complements the rich filling beautifully and makes for an indulgent dessert experience. You can also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.
Combine and Bake
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste!
Common Questions About Butter Tart Squares
If you're new to making Butter Tart Squares, you might have some questions. One common concern is whether to use light or dark corn syrup. While both will work, dark corn syrup will give your squares a deeper flavor. You can also experiment with different types of sugars, such as using brown sugar for a richer taste or even coconut sugar for a unique twist.
Another question often asked is about the consistency of the filling. It should be thick but pourable. If your filling seems too runny after baking, it might need a bit more time in the oven. Every oven is different, so keeping an eye on the squares during the last few minutes of baking can ensure you achieve that perfect set.
Variations to Try
Butter Tart Squares are wonderfully adaptable. You can customize the filling by adding in your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. These variations can add exciting new flavors to the classic recipe while maintaining its signature gooey texture.
For a healthier version, consider substituting some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the flavor slightly, but they can also enhance the squares with a unique taste that pairs beautifully with the butter and nuts.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or omit them entirely.
→ How should I store the Butter Tart Squares?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
→ What can I serve with Butter Tart Squares?
They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Butter Tart Squares
Butter Tart Squares are a delightful twist on the traditional butter tart, offering a sweet and gooey filling atop a flaky crust.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g