Butter Tart Squares Recipe

Flour: The base of the crust, providing structure and texture.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crust and filling.

Brown sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the filling, adding a caramel-like flavor.

Eggs: Bind the filling together, giving it structure.

Raisins: Add a chewy texture and bursts of sweetness in the filling.

White vinegar: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the filling.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.

When preparing the crust, ensure the butter is properly softened to achieve a crumbly texture. This can be done by leaving the butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. Additionally, when pressing the crust mixture into the baking pan, use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to evenly distribute and compact the mixture, which helps in creating a firm base for the filling.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier option.

• butter, softened - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar texture and richness, and it is a dairy-free alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water per egg. This is a vegan alternative that provides similar binding properties.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and is a natural sweetener.

• raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries add a tart flavor and are a good alternative for those who prefer a different dried fruit.

• butter, melted - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a richer flavor, making it a good alternative for melted butter.

• white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a milder taste and adds a slight fruity note.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• Allow the butter tart squares to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This ensures that the filling sets properly and doesn't become too sticky.

• For short-term storage, place the squares in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to refrigerate, transfer the squares to an airtight container, again using parchment paper between layers. They can be refrigerated for up to a week.

• For freezing, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped squares in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. The butter tart squares can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the squares in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For a quicker option, use the microwave on a low setting for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat.

• To serve, you can warm the squares slightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their freshly baked texture.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the butter tart squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crust's crispiness and the filling's gooey texture.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the butter tart squares on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if necessary, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the crust soggy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the butter tart squares in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method can help retain the crust's crispiness while warming the filling evenly.

• For those who prefer a stovetop method, use a skillet over low heat. Place the butter tart squares in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't burn. This method can give a slightly caramelized edge to the crust.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the butter tart squares on the toaster oven tray and heat for 10-12 minutes. This method is similar to the conventional oven but quicker and more energy-efficient.

• Oven: Used to preheat and bake the crust and filling at 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the ingredients for both the crust and the filling.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, butter, brown sugar, raisins, and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like the vinegar and vanilla extract.

• Hand mixer: Useful for mixing the crust ingredients until crumbly and for combining the filling ingredients.

• Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and spreading the crust mixture evenly in the baking pan.

• 9x9 inch baking pan: The pan in which the crust and filling are baked.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the butter tart squares before cutting them into pieces.

• Knife: Necessary for cutting the cooled butter tart squares into portions.

• Grease brush: Used to grease the baking pan to prevent sticking.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This minimizes interruptions.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the flour, butter, and brown sugar for the crust using a food processor.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you gather your ingredients to save time.

Soften butter quickly: Microwave butter for 10-15 seconds if it’s not softened.

Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.

Mix filling efficiently: Use an electric mixer to combine the filling ingredients quickly and thoroughly.