Butter Tart Squares

Name: Butter Tart Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 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 (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the sweet, gooey goodness of Butter Tart Squares, a perfect dessert that combines the classic flavors of butter tarts with the convenience of a bar cookie.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:49:56.001Z

Butter Tart Squares are a beloved treat in Canada, capturing the essence of traditional butter tarts in a more manageable form. These squares are rich, sweet, and utterly satisfying, making them the perfect addition to any dessert table.

        Why You'll Love These Butter Tart Squares
        Rich, sweet flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Chewy, gooey filling with a buttery crust
Perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings

      

The Origin of Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are a beloved Canadian dessert, originating from Ontario in the 19th century. They are known for their sweet and gooey filling encased in a flaky pastry shell. Over the years, many variations have emerged, featuring different nuts, dried fruits, or spices, but the classic version remains a favorite. Butter Tart Squares take this traditional recipe and transform it into a convenient bar form, making it easier to serve and enjoy with friends and family.

The simplicity of butter tarts lies in their rich ingredients, primarily butter, sugar, and eggs. These components create a luscious filling that is both sweet and slightly chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the crumbly crust. The addition of pecans adds a nutty flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Butter Tart Squares are versatile treats that fit seamlessly into various occasions. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, these squares are sure to impress your guests. Their rich sweetness makes them a hit among children and adults alike, ensuring that everyone will be reaching for seconds.

In addition to being a delightful dessert, Butter Tart Squares are also perfect for gift-giving. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces, package them in a decorative box, and you've got a heartfelt homemade gift. They travel well, making them an excellent choice for potlucks or picnics.

Tips for Perfect Butter Tart Squares

To achieve the best results with your Butter Tart Squares, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smooth filling and ensures even baking. Additionally, consider using a mix of light and dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile. The darker sugar adds a hint of molasses, enriching the squares' taste.

When baking, keep a close eye on the filling to avoid overcooking. The squares should be removed from the oven when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Once cooled, they will firm up and be easier to cut into neat squares.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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 (optional)

Mix the crust ingredients well and press into a baking dish for a delicious base.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, butter, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 8-inch square baking dish.

Bake the crust

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

Make the filling

In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pecans if using.

Assemble and bake

Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the filling is set. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Butter Tart Squares with a cup of tea or coffee!

Serving Suggestions

These Butter Tart Squares can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The ice cream's creaminess complements the rich filling, creating a delightful contrast. Additionally, consider serving them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving. This adds an elegant flair and enhances the sweetness, making them even more indulgent.

Storage Tips

To keep your Butter Tart Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for about two weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

These squares also freeze well. Cut them into individual portions and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

Variations to Try

While the classic Butter Tart Squares are delicious on their own, there are plenty of variations to experiment with. You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a unique twist. Each addition brings its own flavor profile, making the squares even more exciting.

For a more indulgent treat, consider making a layer of chocolate ganache over the filling before baking. This adds a rich chocolatey taste that pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the tarts, creating a decadent dessert that will leave everyone wanting more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, unsalted butter works perfectly in this recipe.

→ 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 up to a week.

→ Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I substitute for corn syrup?

You can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute, but the flavor may vary slightly.