Description
These Butter Tart Squares bring all the nostalgic charm of classic Canadian butter tarts without the hassle of individual tart shells. With a rich, gooey caramelized filling layered over a buttery shortbread crust, they strike a perfect balance between chewy and crisp in every bite. This easy recipe makes a quick dessert, snack, or party treat. Perfect for bake sales, holiday tables, or your go-to dessert ideas when you need something simple, satisfying, and sweet.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
2 large eggs
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup cold cubed butter. Mix until crumbly.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. While the crust bakes, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons melted butter in a separate bowl.
5. Stir in raisins if using.
6. Pour the filling over the hot crust and return to the oven.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is just set.
8. Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares.
Notes
Use cold butter for the crust to get that perfect crumbly texture.
Don’t overbake—the center should still have a slight jiggle for gooeyness.
Let cool completely before slicing to ensure clean edges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: butter tart bars, easy dessert recipe, Canadian butter tart, shortbread bars