Description
These Pecan Butter Tart Squares are a decadent reimagining of the traditional Canadian butter tart, featuring a tender, buttery shortbread base topped with a rich, gooey, caramel-like pecan filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, these shareable bars offer a satisfying balance of sweetness and crunch. With their nostalgic, warm flavor profile and ease of preparation, they are a heartfelt favorite that brings comfort and joy to every guest who tastes them.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 cup cold butter, cubed
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups packed brown sugar
3/4 cup melted butter
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups chopped pecans
1 tbsp icing sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the flour and granulated sugar, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the shortbread dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
While the base bakes, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the filling over the hot, pre-baked crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and set at the edges.
Allow the squares to cool completely before dusting with icing sugar and slicing into squares.
Notes
Ensure the shortbread base is still warm when you add the filling to help everything meld together. For the cleanest cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg