What are butter tart bars?

Butter tart bars, or butter tart squares, are a simplified version of the classic Canadian butter tart. The main difference is that these bars are baked in a rectangular pan and cut into individual squares, making them easier to serve and store. They feature a buttery, sweet filling with a crumbly crust and are often topped with raisins or nuts, adding texture to the dessert.

Are butter tarts available in the USA?

While butter tarts are a Canadian classic, they have gained popularity in the United States, especially in areas with a significant Canadian population. Some bakeries and grocery stores in the U.S. offer butter tarts, but they are not as commonly found as other American desserts. However, you can easily make them at home with this butter tart square recipe!

What is a traditional butter tart?

A traditional butter tart consists of a flaky pie crust filled with a rich, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. It’s often made with raisins or pecans, though the filling remains the star of the show. This Canadian dessert is known for its sweet and buttery flavor with a satisfying balance of textures.

Are butter tarts only a Canadian thing?

Although butter tarts originated in Canada, they are not exclusive to the country. Over the years, they have spread beyond Canada’s borders and are enjoyed by people around the world. However, they remain one of the most iconic desserts in Canadian cuisine.

Butter Tart Squares Dessert - How to Make the Best Butter Tart Squares: A Delicious Delight

Name: Butter Tart Squares Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 4 tablespoons icing sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes; 1 to 2 tablespoons cold water (if needed); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 cups brown sugar, lightly packed; 4 large eggs; 1 to 2 tablespoons white vinegar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup raisins (optional)

Description

Butter tart squares are a Canadian classic dessert featuring a buttery, crumbly crust and a rich, gooey filling. With optional raisins or nuts, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons icing sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

1 to 2 tablespoons cold water (if needed)

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3 cups brown sugar, lightly packed

4 large eggs

1 to 2 tablespoons white vinegar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3/4 cup raisins (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and coat with nonstick cooking spray.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk together all-purpose flour and icing sugar in a large bowl.
Cut cold butter cubes into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or fingertips until pea-sized crumbs form. Add cold water as needed to bind the dough.
Press crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside.
In a medium bowl, melt butter and whisk in brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in vinegar and vanilla. Add raisins if desired.
Pour the filling evenly over the baked crust and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set. Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Allow the butter to melt and slightly cool before adding it to the filling to avoid curdling the eggs.

For extra texture and flavor, you can add chopped nuts or include raisins, or substitute them based on your preference.

Keep the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them to maintain freshness for a longer period.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: Canadian