Butter Tart Squares 

Butter Tart Squares are a delightful twist on the classic Canadian butter tart, offering all the rich, gooey goodness in a convenient bar form. These squares feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious brown sugar filling, making them easier to prepare and serve than traditional tarts. Whether you prefer them plain or with the addition of raisins or nuts, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a special treat, they capture the essence of Canadian baking in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  
  

For the Filling:

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  
  

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
  
  

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  
  

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  
  

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  
  

• 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   
   

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
     
     

   • In a medium bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
     
     

   • Add the cold, cubed butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
     
     

   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
     
     

   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
     
     

   • Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
     
     

2. Prepare the Filling:
   
   

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
     
     

   • If using, fold in the raisins or chopped pecans.
     
     

3. Assemble and Bake:
   
   

   • Pour the filling mixture over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
     
     

   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
     
     

   • Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
     
     

   • Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
     
     

Nutritional Information (per square, approximate):

• Calories: 210 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 28g
  
  

• Protein: 2g
  
  

• Fat: 10g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 6g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 45mg
  
  

• Sodium: 100mg
  
  

• Potassium: 80mg
  
  

• Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugar: 20g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 300 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 0mg
  
  

• Calcium: 20mg
  
  

• Iron: 1mg