Name: Butter Tart Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 2 cups brown sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)

Butter Tart Squares are a delightful spin on the classic Canadian treat, perfect for sharing during the holidays or indulging in with your afternoon coffee. With a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey, caramelized topping studded with raisins or nuts, these bars deliver everything you love about butter tarts, but in easy-to-slice square form.

They offer the same rich, sweet flavor profile and chewy texture as traditional butter tarts but save you the fuss of making individual pastry shells. If you’re looking for a nostalgic dessert that’s quick to assemble and crowd-pleasing, these bars are your answer.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Tart Squares Recipe

This recipe brings you all the magic of classic butter tarts in a more approachable format. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just craving something sweet, these squares hit the spot. The contrast between the crumbly base and the luscious, almost toffee-like filling creates a bite that’s both luxurious and comforting. Plus, you can personalize them with your favorite add-ins like chopped pecans or shredded coconut.

Do I Have to Use Raisins in Butter Tart Squares?

Nope! Raisins are traditional, but totally optional. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with chopped walnuts, pecans, or even mini chocolate chips for a modern twist. You could also go raisin-free and enjoy the silky filling as is. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, so go with what makes you happy.

Ingredients for the Butter Tart Squares

The magic of Butter Tart Squares starts with a simple shortbread base and builds up with a gooey, rich topping. Every ingredient serves a specific role in creating that familiar chewy and buttery texture.

For the Crust:

Butter – This is the foundation of the shortbread. Softened butter helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust.

All-Purpose Flour – Gives the crust structure and just the right amount of crumble.

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the crust while contributing a bit of moisture.

Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweet and enhance the buttery flavor.

For the Filling:

Eggs – Help bind the filling and give it that classic custard-like texture.

Brown Sugar – Essential for the signature caramel flavor.

All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the filling just enough to hold its shape once cooled.

Baking Powder – Adds a slight lift to the filling so it doesn’t turn out dense.

Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth and rounds out the sweetness.

Butter – Melted into the filling, it enriches and smooths out the texture.

Raisins or Nuts – Optional, but traditional. These add chewy or crunchy contrast, depending on your choice.

How To Make the Butter Tart Squares

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light. Add flour and salt, and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are just golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar in a bowl until smooth and frothy. Add flour and baking powder, then stir in vanilla and melted butter. Fold in raisins or chopped nuts if using.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

How to Serve and Store Butter Tart Squares

Butter Tart Squares are best served once they’ve had time to cool and set completely. This helps the filling firm up and makes for cleaner slices. You can enjoy them at room temperature or slightly chilled, depending on your preference. These squares feed about 12 to 16 people, depending on how you slice them.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

What to Serve With Butter Tart Squares?

Coffee or Espresso

The deep caramel tones of these squares pair beautifully with the bold flavors of coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream takes these bars into full-on dessert territory.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or blackberries offers a nice contrast to the sweet richness.

Spiced Tea

A warm cup of chai or cinnamon tea complements the warm flavors in the filling.

Whipped Cream

Soft, unsweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy balance.

Caramel Drizzle

For caramel lovers, a light drizzle over the top adds extra decadence.

Maple Syrup Glaze

If you’re leaning into the Canadian inspiration, a touch of maple syrup glaze can enhance that traditional feel.

Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If these Butter Tart Squares are your jam, you might also fall in love with these:

Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons if you’re into chewy coconut perfection.
Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars for a fun, flexible treat.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a bite-sized twist on a classic favorite.
Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler if you’re craving a fruit-forward nostalgic dessert.