Butter Tart Squares

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the sweet, gooey goodness of Butter Tart Squares, a delightful treat that captures the essence of classic butter tarts in a convenient bar form.

Rebecca Turner

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:15:53.953Z

Butter Tart Squares are a delightful twist on a classic Canadian dessert. The combination of a sweet, gooey filling with a buttery crust makes these squares perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea, they are sure to impress!

Why You'll Love These Butter Tart Squares

  • Rich flavor of caramelized butter and brown sugar
  • Deliciously chewy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
  • Easy to make and perfect for sharing

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Butter Tart Squares are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet at home, these squares are sure to impress. Their rich, comforting flavor makes them a fantastic choice for holidays, parties, or even as an everyday treat.

What makes these squares particularly appealing is their portability. Unlike traditional butter tarts, which can be messy to serve, Butter Tart Squares are easy to slice and serve, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. They travel well, so you can bring them along to gatherings without the worry of spills or breakage.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of Butter Tart Squares is their adaptability. While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily modify the filling to suit your preferences. For instance, feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or macadamias, or even add chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dessert uniquely yours.

If you're looking for a more decadent option, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top after baking. This addition elevates the Butter Tart Squares to a whole new level, combining the flavors of buttery caramel with rich chocolate. No matter how you choose to customize them, these squares will undoubtedly become a favorite.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Butter Tart Squares fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

When it's time to serve, consider pairing these sweet squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy contrast beautifully complements the rich, gooey filling, making each bite even more indulgent. For a touch of elegance, drizzle some caramel sauce on top before serving, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

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 pecans or walnuts (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8-inch baking dish.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the nuts if using.

Combine and Bake

Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into squares.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information

Butter Tart Squares, while undeniably delicious, can be enjoyed in moderation to maintain a balanced diet. Each square provides a delightful combination of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, making them a satisfying treat. However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your sugar intake.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider reducing the amount of sugar or substituting some ingredients. For instance, using coconut sugar in place of brown sugar can provide a lower glycemic index option. Additionally, swapping out some of the butter for unsweetened applesauce can reduce the fat content while keeping the squares moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people wonder if they can freeze Butter Tart Squares. The answer is yes! To freeze, simply wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a sealed container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Another common question is about the best way to cut these squares for serving. To achieve clean, even cuts, use a sharp knife and warm it slightly under hot water. Wipe the knife clean between cuts to prevent sticking, ensuring each square looks as good as it tastes.

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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 them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly.

→ What can I serve with Butter Tart Squares?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Butter Tart Squares

Indulge in the sweet, gooey goodness of Butter Tart Squares, a delightful treat that captures the essence of classic butter tarts in a convenient bar form.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Rebecca Turner

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 16 squares

What You'll Need

For the Crust

  1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  2. 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling

  1. 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  2. 1/2 cup corn syrup
  3. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8-inch baking dish.

Step 02

In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the nuts if using.

Step 03

Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g