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Butter Tart Squares

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Butter Tart Squares are a delectable and easy-to-make dessert that captures the rich, buttery goodness of traditional butter tarts in a portable, bar form. Featuring a buttery, flaky crust topped with a gooey, sweet filling made with brown sugar, butter, and vanilla, and a hint of maple flavor, these squares are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 egg yolk

2 tablespoons ice water (more if needed)

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)

2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional for a maple flavor)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. For the Crust: Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Egg Yolk and Water: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and ice water. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time.
  3. Chill the Dough: Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan, making sure it’s evenly spread. Use a fork to prick a few holes in the crust to prevent it from puffing up. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
  4. Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for 12-15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  5. For the Filling: Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
  6. Add Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for extra flavor and crunch.
  7. Assemble: Pour the filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Bake the Squares: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  9. Cool and Slice: Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps the filling set and ensures clean slices.

Notes

Maple Butter Tart Squares: For a stronger maple flavor, increase the maple syrup to 1/4 cup and reduce the brown sugar slightly. You can also add a few teaspoons of maple extract for a more intense maple flavor.

Vegan Version: Use a plant-based butter substitute and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) to make these squares vegan-friendly.

Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the pecans or walnuts for a smooth, rich butter tart filling.

Chocolate Drizzle: For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled squares for extra flavor and decoration.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/butter-tart-squares/