Butter Tart Squares

Name: Butter Tart Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 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)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, sweet flavors of Butter Tart Squares, a delicious twist on the classic Canadian dessert.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:26.138Z

Butter Tart Squares are a decadent treat that combines the gooeyness of traditional butter tarts with the ease of a bar format. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet indulgence, these squares are sure to please any crowd.

        Why You'll Love These Butter Tart Squares
        Rich, buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla
Easy to make and perfect for sharing
Chewy texture that satisfies every sweet tooth

      

The Origin of Butter Tart Squares

Butter tarts are a beloved Canadian dessert, originating from Ontario in the 19th century. This delightful treat has evolved over time, leading to various adaptations, including the creation of Butter Tart Squares. These squares capture the essence of the traditional tart but offer a more convenient, shareable form that is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

The classic butter tart features a flaky pastry filled with a gooey, sweet filling, often enhanced with raisins or nuts. Butter Tart Squares simplify the process, allowing you to enjoy the same rich flavors in a chewy, bar-like format. This makes them an excellent choice for those who crave that buttery goodness without the need for tedious tart crusts.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, Butter Tart Squares fit the bill perfectly. Their rich, buttery flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser, and they are easy to slice into bite-sized pieces for serving. You can also wrap them individually for a delightful homemade treat that friends and family will appreciate.

These squares are versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Adding nuts provides a delightful crunch, while leaving them plain showcases the luscious filling. No matter how you choose to make them, they're sure to be a hit at any event.

Storage and Serving Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Butter Tart Squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

When serving, consider pairing these squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert experience. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top can add an extra layer of sweetness that complements the buttery filling beautifully.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk

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)

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are combined.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, and egg yolk. Mix until crumbly, then press into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.

Bake the crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the filling

In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well blended. If using, stir in the chopped nuts.

Assemble and bake

Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly bubbling.

Cool and cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Serve at room temperature or chilled for a delicious treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these Butter Tart Squares a bit healthier, you can substitute some of the ingredients. For instance, using coconut oil in place of butter will still yield a rich flavor while reducing saturated fats. Similarly, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the crust. This allows everyone to enjoy this classic dessert, regardless of dietary restrictions, while still maintaining the delicious taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Butter Tart Squares are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. Pairing them with freshly brewed coffee or tea can enhance the flavors and create a cozy dessert experience. For a festive twist, consider serving them with a spiced chai or hot chocolate during the colder months.

Additionally, if you're looking to impress your guests, try garnishing the squares with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar. This small touch can elevate the presentation and add a contrast to the sweetness of the filling.

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 leftover squares?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I serve with Butter Tart Squares?

They pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a cup of tea.