Introduction
Relish the delightful nostalgia of classic Canadian butter tarts transformed into easy, satisfying squares. Perfect for potlucks or as a sweet treat at home, these squares capture the gooey, sticky goodness of traditional butter tarts with a crumbly crust.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the crust:
– All-purpose flour: 250 grams
– Granulated sugar: 50 grams
– Unsalted butter: 170 grams, cold and cubed
For the filling:
– Eggs: 2 large
– Brown sugar: 300 grams
– Corn syrup: 125 ml
– Unsalted butter: 60 grams, melted
– Vanilla extract: 5 ml
– Salt: 1 gram
– Raisins (optional): 100 grams
Prep Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 24 squares
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
5. If using, fold the raisins into the filling mixture. Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly bubbly around the edges.
7. Allow the butter tart squares to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out. Cut into squares and serve.
8. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it and lining with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 250 grams of all-purpose flour and 50 grams of granulated sugar. Cut in 170 grams of cold and cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small butter bits visible.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 300 grams of brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Gradually add 125 ml of corn syrup, 60 grams of melted unsalted butter, 5 ml of vanilla extract, and 1 gram of salt, stirring until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step 5: Add Raisins (Optional)
If desired, gently fold 100 grams of raisins into the filling mixture. This adds a delightful chewy texture and extra sweetness to the butter tart squares.
Step 6: Fill the Crust
Pour the prepared filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure that the filling is well distributed across the surface.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The filling should appear set and slightly bubbly around the edges when done.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, allow the butter tart squares to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. When completely cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the squares out of the dish. Cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
Store any leftover butter tart squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Ensure they are kept in a cool area to maintain their delightful texture. Enjoy the exquisite blend of a sweet, gooey filling and a crumbly crust that makes every bite a nostalgic treat.
Cook Techniques
Cutting in Butter
Cutting in butter involves blending cold, cubed butter with flour and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique creates a flaky texture in the crust.
Baking the Crust
Baking the crust before adding the filling helps ensure it remains crisp. Bake until the edges are lightly golden to achieve the best texture.
Whisking Filling Ingredients
Whisking the eggs and sugar together until smooth ensures that the filling is combined evenly, creating a uniform texture throughout the squares.
Fold in Add-ins
Gently folding in raisins (if using) ensures they are evenly distributed without overmixing the filling, which can lead to a dense texture.
Baking Time and Temperature
Baking the squares at 180°C allows the filling to set properly. Watch for a bubbly texture around the edges to know they are ready to come out of the oven.
Cooling Completely
Allowing the butter tart squares to cool completely before cutting is crucial for maintaining their shape and preventing them from falling apart.
FAQ
Can I substitute the raisins in the filling?
Yes, you can omit the raisins or replace them with nuts, chocolate chips, or other dried fruits based on your preference.
How do I store leftover butter tart squares?
Store butter tart squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
Can I freeze butter tart squares?
Yes, you can freeze the squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with butter tart squares?
These squares pair well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the squares.
Conclusion
Butter Tart Squares offer a deliciously simple way to enjoy the traditional flavors of Canadian butter tarts. With their gooey filling and crumbly crust, these squares are an effortless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or treating yourself at home, these squares embody comfort and indulgence in every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Butter Tart Squares
Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling mixture for a delightful twist on classic butter tart squares.
Pecan Pie Butter Tart Squares
Incorporate chopped pecans into the filling for a nutty flavor and added crunch that complements the gooey filling.
Coconut Butter Tart Squares
Stir in shredded coconut to the filling before baking to add a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel notes.
Maple Butter Tart Squares
Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a uniquely Canadian version that enhances the sweetness with rich maple undertones.
Spiced Butter Tart Squares
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that elevates the traditional recipe.
Fruit and Nut Butter Tart Squares
Include dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots along with nuts for a fruity, chewy texture amidst the classic gooey filling.
