1. Can I freeze Butter Tart Squares?

Yes! Butter Tart Squares freeze exceptionally well. Once fully cooled and sliced, wrap each square in parchment or plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

2. Why do my Butter Tart Squares turn out too runny?

A runny filling usually means the bars were underbaked or not chilled long enough. Bake until the center is just set with a slight jiggle — not liquid. Then allow the squares to fully cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing. The chilling step helps the filling firm up properly.

3. Can I make Butter Tart Squares without raisins?

Absolutely. While raisins are traditional, many people prefer Butter Tart Squares without them. You can leave them out entirely or substitute with other add-ins like chopped pecans, walnuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for a different flavor profile.

4. What’s the best way to store Butter Tart Squares?

Store Butter Tart Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze as noted above. Always chill before slicing for clean, neat squares — and serve cold or at room temperature depending on your preference.

Butter Tart Squares – Best Ever Homemade Treat

Name: Butter Tart Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-495502H53M47S
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour: provides the structure for the crust; 4 tablespoons powdered icing sugar: adds light sweetness to the crust; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: creates a tender, flaky base; 1–2 tablespoons cold water (optional): helps bind the crust if needed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter: gives the filling its rich, gooey texture; 3 cups brown sugar, lightly packed: adds deep caramel flavor to the filling; 4 large eggs: bind the filling and create structure; 2 tablespoons white vinegar: balances sweetness and enhances texture; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: adds aroma and warm flavor; 3/4 cup raisins (optional): traditional mix-in for added chewiness

Description

Butter Tart Squares are a gooey, rich Canadian dessert bar featuring a tender shortbread crust and a buttery brown sugar filling. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour: provides the structure for the crust
4 tablespoons powdered icing sugar: adds light sweetness to the crust
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: creates a tender, flaky base
1–2 tablespoons cold water (optional): helps bind the crust if needed
1/2 cup unsalted butter: gives the filling its rich, gooey texture
3 cups brown sugar, lightly packed: adds deep caramel flavor to the filling
4 large eggs: bind the filling and create structure
2 tablespoons white vinegar: balances sweetness and enhances texture
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: adds aroma and warm flavor
3/4 cup raisins (optional): traditional mix-in for added chewiness

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, mix flour and powdered icing sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or hands until pea-sized pieces form.
If the mixture is too crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of cold water until it holds together when pressed.
Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool slightly.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Whisk in the brown sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition.
Stir in the white vinegar and vanilla extract until fully combined. Fold in raisins if using.
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares.

Notes

Use cold butter for the crust to ensure flakiness.
Don’t skip the chilling step—it helps the filling set for clean slicing.
You can omit raisins or substitute with pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips.
For a festive touch, add a splash of maple syrup or bourbon to the filling.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 174 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg