The moment I took a bite of a warm Butter Tart Square, I was transported to a cozy kitchen filled with the comforting scents of vanilla and brown sugar. These delightful treats are a fabulous twist on the classic Canadian butter tart, delivered in an easy, sliceable form that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an afternoon snack. What’s more, the recipe is incredibly versatile—you can indulge in variations like Chocolate Chip Butter Tart Squares or even Pecan Butter Tart Squares. With quick prep and a mess-free serving option, you’ll find that pleasing friends and family has never been easier. Curious about how to whip up this warm, gooey goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Butter Tart Squares so irresistible?
Decadent flavors come together in these Butter Tart Squares, delivering a rich, gooey filling hugged by a crumbly crust. Versatility shines as you can easily make variations like Chocolate Chip or Pecan Butter Tart Squares. Quick prep means you can have these delightful treats baked and ready to serve in no time! Perfect for parties or casual dinners, they invite a crowd to indulge joyfully. A true testament to comfort food, this recipe makes homemade sweetness effortlessly appealing! Don’t miss checking out our Skillet Breakfast Hash for more delicious inspiration!
Butter Tart Squares Ingredients
For the Crust
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it is melted and slightly cooled to prevent cooking the eggs in the filling.
• Flour – Forms the crust and gives a crumbly texture; be sure to measure correctly for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor in the crust; if using salted butter, omit additional salt.
For the Filling
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; can be swapped with maple syrup for an even richer taste.
• Eggs – Binds the filling and gives structure; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vinegar – Adds a slight tang to balance sweetness; substitute with lemon juice if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Tart Squares
Step 1: Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan, ensuring it’s even. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden and set, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, room temperature eggs, melted butter, and vinegar until smooth and creamy. The mixture should have a slightly thick consistency and a rich, glossy appearance. If you’re adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, gently fold them into the filling at this point for an extra flavor boost.
Step 3: Assemble the Squares
Once the crust has cooled, pour the filling mixture evenly over the warm crust, spreading it out with a spatula. The filling should cover the crust completely, creating a beautiful base for your Butter Tart Squares. Take care to avoid lifting or disturbing the crust as you spread the filling to maintain a cohesive structure in the final product.
Step 4: Bake the Filling
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is just set with a slight jiggle in the center. It should bloom beautifully and take on a lovely golden hue. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overbaking, as the magic of Butter Tart Squares lies in that gooey filling!
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the Butter Tart Squares from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling the squares will help them firm up, making them easier to cut into neat squares and preventing any messy fillings when serving.
How to Store and Freeze Butter Tart Squares
Room Temperature: Store leftover Butter Tart Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the squares in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps to keep the filling nice and gooey.
Freezer: You can freeze Butter Tart Squares for up to 2 months. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the squares in the fridge overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
What to Serve with Butter Tart Squares
The sweet, gooey allure of Butter Tart Squares can stand alone, but pairing them with the right companions elevates your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: Add a burst of flavor and vibrancy to your plate; strawberries or raspberries enhance the sweetness beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream offsets the richness of the squares, making each bite feel indulgent yet refreshing.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or maple ice cream adds a creamy texture that complements the gooey filling while cooling down each delightful mouthful.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness; think cozy afternoons accompanied by your favorite beverage.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over the squares for a decadent twist that everyone will love; it adds both visual appeal and chocolatey goodness.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans on the side introduce an earthy crunch, enhancing the overall texture and making each bite a new delight.
- Caramel Drizzle: A light pour of caramel sauce adds another layer of sweetness and a hint of richness; it’s simply irresistible!
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, use coconut whipped cream as a vegan alternative that pairs perfectly with the dense textures of the squares.
Explore these pairings, and watch your gatherings transform into memorable dessert experiences!
Butter Tart Squares Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Butter Tart Squares! Each variation adds a unique twist to this classic treat that will delight your taste buds.
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Chocolate Chip: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a decadent melt-in-your-mouth experience. These squares become an even more irresistible indulgence!
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Pecan Crunch: Fold in roughly chopped pecans for a nutty crunch that complements the gooey filling perfectly. The added texture makes every bite exciting.
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Coconut Bliss: Mix shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical flavor that transports you to a sunny paradise with each bite. It’s a delightful surprise!
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Maple Sweetness: Swap the brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like flavor. This variation truly elevates the traditional Butter Tart experience.
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Fruit-Topped: Garnish with fresh fruit, like raspberries or blueberries, on top of the cooled squares to add a burst of freshness and color. It turns a simple dessert into a showstopper!
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Spicy Warmth: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. This warm touch gives your squares a cozy autumn flair, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a vegan version. With all the delicious sweetness, you won’t even miss the dairy!
Make sure to check out our Skillet Breakfast Hash for more fantastic recipe ideas that inspire flavor all around the table! Enjoy experimenting with these delightful variations!
Make Ahead Options
Butter Tart Squares are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. The filling can also be mixed ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—this will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling over the chilled crust and bake for the recommended time. Chilling the squares after baking is essential for successful slicing, so let them cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Your Butter Tart Squares will be just as delicious and perfectly sliceable, making them a stress-free dessert option!
Expert Tips for Butter Tart Squares
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Chill Before Cutting: Allow the squares to chill for at least 2 hours. This step helps the filling set, making it easier to cut clean slices without a messy filling.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for a smoother filling. Cold eggs can lead to lumps and uneven mixing in your Butter Tart Squares.
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Avoid Overbaking: Check for a slight jiggle in the center while baking. Overbaking results in a dry filling; you want that characteristic gooeyness!
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Texture Additions: Consider mixing in chopped pecans, chocolate chips, or coconut for added texture and flavor variations in your Butter Tart Squares.
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Watch Your Salt: If using salted butter, skip the added salt in your crust. This keeps your squares from becoming overly salty, letting the sweet filling shine.
Butter Tart Squares Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Butter Tart Squares?
Absolutely, using unsalted butter is recommended for Butter Tart Squares. This allows you to control the saltiness of the filling better. If you only have salted butter, just omit adding any extra salt when mixing the crust.
How can I tell if my Butter Tart Squares are baked properly?
Very! Keep an eye on the baking time and look for a slight jiggle in the center of the filling when you remove the pan from the oven. The outer edges should be set while the center remains slightly wobbly. Remember, the filling will firm up as it cools!
How should I store Butter Tart Squares for optimal freshness?
You can store leftover Butter Tart Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are well-covered to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze Butter Tart Squares, first allow them to cool completely in the pan. Then, cut them into squares for easy servings. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply let them sit in the fridge overnight.
What should I consider if I want to make Butter Tart Squares with dietary restrictions?
Check patience’s allergies — Butter Tart Squares contain eggs and dairy, so if someone can’t consume those, you can try using a plant-based butter substitute and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for binding. While the texture may vary, this is a great option for vegan alternatives!
Do I need to refrigerate Butter Tart Squares before cutting?
Yes! Chilling Butter Tart Squares for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator not only helps firm up the filling but also makes it much easier to cut into neat squares. It prevents the gooey filling from spreading messily when you cut them.
Irresistible Butter Tart Squares: Sweet, Sliceable Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vinegar until smooth and creamy. If adding mix-ins, fold them into the filling now.
- Once the crust has cooled, pour the filling over it, spreading with a spatula without disturbing the crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is just set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Allow to cool in the pan at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for setting.