Butter Tart Squares – Experience the harmony of “Butter Tart Squares” a dessert that combines the velvety richness of butter with a hint of authentic Canadian charm. These squares feature a crust and a sumptuous filling made with all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and the optional addition of currants and walnuts resulting in an indulgent treat.
I still vividly remember the first time I baked these Butter Tart Squares. It was, on a chilly evening creating the ambiance for a cozy kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of freshly baked goods. As I carefully pulled out those squares from the oven their buttery fragrance wafted through our home drawing my husband and child straight to the kitchen. Their eyes lit up as they took their bite and since then these squares have held a special place in our hearts as a treasured family delight that never fails to bring smiles.
What makes this Butter Tart Squares truly special?
“Butter Tart Squares” pay homage to Canada’s heritage while adding a twist to the classic butter tart by transforming it into a convenient bar form. With options, like raisins, currants, or walnuts these squares cater to tastes and preferences. However, their true allure lies in their balance of textures—a crumbly base layer harmonizing flawlessly with an irresistibly gooey and decadent filling—ensuring that every bite is an enchanting symphony of flavors and sensations. This sweet treat not only fulfills your craving, for something but also allows you to experience a taste of Canadian culinary heritage in the comfort of your own home.
What You Need To Make This The Best Butter Tart Squares Recipe?
Unsalted Butter: We opt for butter in this recipe to create a canvas much like starting a painting. It allows us to have control, over the flavor profile. Remember, the quality of the butter shines through so choose one that you enjoy.
Powdered Sugar: This fine and delicate sugar seamlessly blends into the mixture adding a touch of sweetness. It’s more like a whisper than a statement of sugar.
All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the foundation, for our base layer. It provides structure while graciously allowing the buttery goodness to take the stage.
Brown Sugar: Consider sugar as the intricate relative of our base layer. With its molasses undertones, it brings depth and richness that white sugar simply can’t match. Whether light or dark it truly adds soul to the filling.
Corn Syrup and vinegar: This dynamic duo holds the essence of this recipe. Corn syrup offers a caramel-like sweetness while vinegar subtly balances it out preventing a sugary taste. They work together in harmony like a well-practiced dance pair.
Eggs & Vanilla Extract: Eggs and vanilla extract play a role in this recipe. The eggs act as the binders bringing everything together like an embrace while the vanilla extract adds a fragrant touch. When combined they create an inviting filling.
Add-Ins (Currants/Walnuts): When it comes to add-ins you have the freedom to let your creativity soar. Currants bring a burst of sweetness, to the dish adding an element of excitement. On the other hand, walnuts provide a crunch that surprises your taste buds, with every bite. Don’t hesitate to put your spin on this recipe and make it uniquely yours.
Steps To Make Butter Tart Squares:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl beat the butter and powdered sugar until it becomes light and fluffy like a cloud. Gently incorporate the flour into the mixture. It will be thick and full of promise. Press this mixture into the prepared pan envisioning the delightful outcome.
Step 3: Bake it for around 15 to 20 minutes keeping an eye on its transformation into a shade of joy.
Step 4: While your base is baking let’s move on to preparing the filling. Beat together the butter, brown sugar and flour until they form a blend resembling a lake. Whisk, in the eggs and vanilla extract with love infused in every stir. Add in the corn syrup and vinegar before folding in your chosen ingredients. Pour this mixture over the base layer.
Step 5: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until it sets like cherished memories from your past. Allow it to cool down patiently as perfection takes time.
Step 6: When ready lift the parchment paper. Transfer your creation onto a cutting board. Slice, through it using a knife while trimming off any edges that might reveal tales of overzealousness.
Tip:
To achieve the perfect texture for your Butter Tart Squares, pay special attention to the cooling process. After baking, resist the temptation to cut into them immediately. Instead, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. This patience pays off by letting the filling set properly, resulting in clean, beautiful cuts. If you’re in a hurry, you can expedite this process by placing the pan in the refrigerator for a bit. Remember, these squares are like fine wine – they get better with a little time. This cooling step ensures each square is a harmonious blend of gooey, rich filling and a perfectly firm base.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare these squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! Once they have cooled down you can hold them in a container at room temperature for, up to 5 days. They also freeze nicely. Can be saved for up to a month.
What if my filling isn’t setting properly?
To guarantee that the filling sets properly make sure to bake the squares until they’re completely firm. Since ovens can vary you may need to bake them for a longer if necessary. Additionally allowing them to cool entirely is crucial for the filling to firm up.
Can I replace corn syrup with another syrup?
Certainly! You can use a thick syrup, like golden syrup as an alternative. However, it’s advisable to avoid using syrups as they may change both the texture and sweetness of the squares.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Butter Tart Squares
Ingredients
Base Layer:
- 2 ¼ c all-purpose flour
- ½ c powdered sugar
- 1 c unsalted butter softened
Butter Tart Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ c dark corn syrup
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- ½ c unsalted butter softened
- 1 c brown sugar light or dark
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 c raisins currants, or chopped walnuts
Instructions
- First preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl beat together softened butter (1 cup) and powdered sugar (½ cup) until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour (2 ¼ cups) to the mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Press the resulting mixture into the bottom of the pan.
- Place the pan in the oven. Bake for around 15 to 20 minutes or until it turns a golden color. Once baked remove from the oven. Keep the oven on.
- While the base is baking, prepare the filling by beating softened butter, (½ cup) brown sugar (1 cup) and flour (2 tablespoons).
- Add eggs (4 in total) one at a time along with vanilla extract (2 teaspoons). Mix after each addition.
- Next stir in corn syrup (¾ cup), vinegar (2 tablespoons) and if desired you can add raisins, currants or chopped walnuts up to 1 cup.
- Pour this filling over the baked base layer in your pan.
- Put it back into the oven for another 30 to 35 minutes or until the filling sets.
- Allow it to cool completely within the pan before using parchment paper overhangs to lift it out.
- Once cooled down entirely slice, into bars. They are ready to be served.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
