The aroma of freshly baked Butter Tart Squares wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. This delightful Canadian treat brings together the rich flavors of butter, eggs, and brown sugar into a nostalgic dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. What I adore most about these Butter Tart Squares is not just their gooey goodness, but their versatility—perfectly suited for any occasion and a hit with both novice and experienced bakers alike. With minimal fuss and the option to mix in chocolate chips or toasted coconut for a fun twist, this recipe promises a quick win for anyone tired of fast food. Are you ready to create some sweet memories in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why are Butter Tart Squares so irresistible?

Buttery Bliss: These squares are the ultimate comfort dessert, combining the rich, creamy goodness of butter with a soft, chewy filling that melts in your mouth.

No-Fuss Preparation: Perfect for busy bakers, this easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a go-to for any gathering.

Nostalgic Delight: Fond memories come flooding back with each bite, reminding you of warm kitchens and family traditions.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize with chocolate chips or toasted coconut for a unique spin on a classic treat.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a potluck or a cozy family night at home, these squares are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee for an indulgent experience that rivals even the best of Honey Butter Chicken or Cajun Salmon. Let the magic of Butter Tart Squares brighten your table!

Butter Tart Squares Ingredients

Unleash the gooey goodness!

For the Crust

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the crust. Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crust. No substitutes needed.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for richness and flavor; should be cold and cubed for the crust. Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Cold Water – Adjusts dough consistency if needed; use sparingly.

For the Filling

Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a caramel-like flavor for the filling. Lightly packed brown sugar is recommended.
Eggs – Adds richness and sets the filling; essential for texture. Substitute with a flax egg for vegan options.
White Vinegar – Balances sweetness and enhances the texture of filling. Can be omitted if necessary.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors; use pure vanilla for best taste.
Raisins (Optional) – Adds chewiness and flavor contrast; can be omitted or replaced with nuts for added crunch.

Enjoy these Butter Tart Squares at any gathering, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Tart Squares

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, and then cut in cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Blind bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until just set and lightly golden.

Step 2: Make the Filling
While the crust is cooling, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, white vinegar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and well combined. If you’d like to add optional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips, now is the time to fold them in gently. The mixture should be thick and glossy, embodying the rich essence of your Butter Tart Squares.

Step 3: Combine & Bake
Once the crust is ready and slightly cooled, pour the filling mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This will ensure that your Butter Tart Squares are gooey and delicious.

Step 4: Cool and Slice
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the Butter Tart Squares into squares for serving. The rich golden filling should glisten, inviting you to indulge. Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!

Storage Tips for Butter Tart Squares

Room Temperature: Store Butter Tart Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delicious gooeyness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the squares in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps the texture perfect while enhancing flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze Butter Tart Squares for up to 3 months. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then pop in the microwave for a few seconds. They’ll be just as delightful as when freshly baked!

Helpful Tricks for Butter Tart Squares

Blind Bake Importance: Blind baking the crust for 10 minutes ensures it won’t become soggy, providing a lovely texture to your Butter Tart Squares.
Watch the Jiggle: When baking, keep an eye on the filling. It should jiggle slightly in the center when you take it out to maintain that gooey, rich texture.
Chill Before Slicing: Let the squares cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and gives cleaner cuts, making each square look as good as it tastes.
Customize Smartly: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts, but don’t overdo it; a few add-ins go a long way to enhance the flavor of your Butter Tart Squares without overpowering the classic taste.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. This makes them a perfect make-ahead treat!

What to Serve with Butter Tart Squares

Indulging in the lusciousness of Butter Tart Squares creates an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering cherished moments around the table.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy scoop complements the gooey texture, making every bite even more divine. The coolness balances the warmth of the squares beautifully.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the dessert’s playful presentation.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew elevates the experience. The rich flavors pair wonderfully with the buttery sweetness for a cozy finishing touch.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a soft contrast that beautifully complements the chewy filling.
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce brings an indulgent twist to your Butter Tart Squares, perfect for chocolate lovers craving a little extra.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, creating a satisfying textural contrast with the soft squares.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink option, sparkling water cleanses the palate and keeps things feeling light, making every bite feel like a treat.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the top takes the sweetness to another level, making your Butter Tart Squares irresistibly decadent.

Explore these pairings to create a dessert experience that’s as unforgettable as the memories it inspires!

Make Ahead Options

These Butter Tart Squares are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance—just blind bake it and let it cool completely before storing it covered at room temperature. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply give it a quick whisk before pouring it over the crust. To maintain its gooey goodness, make sure to let everything come to room temperature before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy your Butter Tart Squares, bake them as directed, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready with minimal effort!

Butter Tart Squares Variations & Substitutions

Explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your Butter Tart Squares uniquely yours!

Chocolate Indulgence: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of richness. These decadent morsels create a lovely contrast to the gooey filling.
Coconut Crunch: Mix in toasted coconut for a delightful chewiness and tropical flavor boost. The added texture complements the buttery base beautifully.
Nutty Goodness: Substitute chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty dimension. Their crunchiness pairs perfectly with the smooth, sweet filling for a satisfying bite.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. You’ll still achieve a rich flavor while keeping it accessible for everyone.
Spicy Touch: For a hint of warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. This subtle spice enhances the overall flavor profile, making it even more inviting.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries in place of raisins for a tart burst of flavor. These fruits can elevate the sweetness with their natural zing.
Vegan Variation: Replace eggs with a flax egg for a vegan-friendly version. This simple swap will keep your Butter Tart Squares wonderfully gooey and satisfying.
Additional Toppings: Drizzle the cooled squares with a chocolate or caramel sauce before serving. This extra layer adds a touch of elegance and flavor, making them irresistible!

Don’t forget, serving these delightful squares with a scoop of Honey Butter Chicken or a side of Cajun Salmon can create the perfect balance for a fabulous meal. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Butter Tart Squares Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose ripe ingredients for Butter Tart Squares?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, especially eggs, look for fresh ones with a clean shell and no cracks. For butter, choose unsalted to control the sweetness. Ensure your brown sugar is moist and lightly packed to achieve that rich caramel flavor, while powdered sugar should be fine and clump-free for a tender crust.

How do I store leftover Butter Tart Squares?
After enjoying these delights, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container, where they can last for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before indulging for the best experience!

Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares?
Yes, you can! To freeze Butter Tart Squares, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy a quick microwave reheat for that freshly-baked taste!

What should I do if my Butter Tart Squares turn out too runny?
If your Butter Tart Squares are too runny, it’s likely they haven’t set properly. Make sure you’re using the correct baking time—aim for 25-30 minutes, with a slight jiggle in the center when done. If they still seem too soft, allow them to cool in the pan for a bit longer; the filling will firm up further as it cools. Over time, the more you practice, the better your squares will turn out!

Are there any allergen considerations with Butter Tart Squares?
Absolutely! These squares contain eggs and dairy due to the butter and eggs used in the recipe. If you’re making them for guests with allergies, you can substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit for a few minutes to thicken), and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Remember to confirm any allergies with your guests to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats!

Buttery Bliss: Irresistible Butter Tart Squares Recipe

These Butter Tart Squares combine rich butter, eggs, and brown sugar into a delightful Canadian treat that’s a hit at any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Servings: 16 squares

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Canadian

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
1/4 cup Powdered Sugar No substitutes needed.
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Should be cold and cubed; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
2-3 tablespoons Cold Water Use sparingly to adjust dough consistency.

For the Filling

1 cup Brown Sugar Lightly packed brown sugar is recommended.
2 large Eggs Substitute with a flax egg for vegan options.
1 tablespoon White Vinegar Can be omitted if necessary.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for best taste.
1/2 cup Raisins Optional; can be omitted or replaced with nuts.

Equipment

9x9-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Sharp knife

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, then cut in cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
Blind bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until just set and lightly golden.
While the crust is cooling, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, white vinegar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.
If desired, fold in optional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips.
Once the crust is ready, pour the filling mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the Butter Tart Squares into squares for serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 80mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These Butter Tart Squares can be customized with chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

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