Butter tart squares with a shortbread crust are an irresistible dessert that combines the rich, gooey sweetness of a classic butter tart with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of a shortbread crust. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it a favorite in many households. The layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel filling, and a slight crunch of nuts (optional) offer a balance of textures that will have everyone coming back for more.

What Do You Need to Prepare Butter Tart Squares with Shortbread Crust?

Before you start baking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. The beauty of butter tart squares lies in their simplicity, so you won’t need too many items to get started!

Equipment Needed:

9×9-inch square baking pan
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)

Ingredients:

For the Shortbread Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

For the Butter Tart Filling:

1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Easy Butter Tart Squares with Shortbread Crust – Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly mixture. Press the dough into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Butter Tart Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and flour until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, until the mixture is well-combined. Stir in the salt and chopped nuts (if using).

Step 4: Assemble the Squares

Pour the butter tart filling over the cooled shortbread crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake the entire pan for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the squares are done.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Allow the butter tart squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Variations

Butter tart squares are a versatile dessert, and you can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Some popular variations include adding chocolate chips to the filling for a richer, fudgier texture. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to create new flavor profiles. For an extra decadent treat, drizzle the squares with caramel sauce or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. If you’re looking to make a more “health-conscious” version, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute in place of regular butter for a vegan-friendly twist. The crust can also be made with almond flour for a gluten-free option. The possibilities are endless, making butter tart squares a go-to dessert for any occasion.

Cooking Note

To get the perfect buttery and gooey filling, it’s crucial to not overcook the butter tart squares. Once the filling has set and the top is golden brown, remove the squares from the oven, as they will continue to cook a bit from residual heat. Overcooking can lead to a dry filling, which is not ideal for this dessert. For best results, let the squares cool completely before cutting them into portions to allow the filling to firm up nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Butter tart squares are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. If you’re looking for a more indulgent treat, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavor of the squares perfectly. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. These squares are great for potlucks, parties, and holiday gatherings, and they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Helpful Tips

Ensure the butter is cold when making the shortbread crust for the best texture.
If you prefer a firmer crust, bake it for an extra 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Use parchment paper to easily lift the squares out of the pan for clean cuts.
For a more decadent version, try adding chocolate chips or a layer of chocolate ganache.
When making the filling, ensure the eggs are at room temperature to avoid curdling when mixed with the melted butter.

Tips for the Best Butter Tart Squares

Don’t skip the step of cooling the crust before adding the filling. A warm crust may cause the filling to melt and mix into the crust, making it less distinct.
Be sure not to overbake the butter tart squares. The filling should still be a little wobbly when you remove it from the oven.
If using nuts, toast them slightly before adding them to the filling to bring out their flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make these butter tart squares ahead of time?
Yes, these squares store well! Make them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

Can I freeze butter tart squares?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place the squares in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts, pecans, or any other nut of your choice. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for easier biting!

Conclusion

Butter tart squares with a shortbread crust are a must-try dessert for any occasion. The perfect balance of sweet, buttery filling and a crumbly, buttery crust makes them irresistible. Easy to make and customizable, these squares are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own variations, they are bound to impress. Perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or as a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones, butter tart squares are a versatile and delicious dessert that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!