Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these pecan butter tart squares! They’re like little bites of heaven, combining the rich, buttery goodness of a classic butter tart with the delightful crunch of pecans—all in a simple, shareable square! I remember the first time I made these; my kitchen smelled heavenly, and the moment they came out of the oven, my family gathered around, practically drooling with anticipation. The gooey filling and the slightly crisp crust create this perfect harmony of textures that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or planning a get-together, these squares are always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming up excuses to make them again and again!

Ingredients for Pecan Butter Tart Squares

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delicious pecan butter tart squares. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base of your crust, giving it that nice, tender texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s soft! This helps it blend easily with the other ingredients for a smooth crust.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Just a touch of sweetness to complement the buttery flavor of the crust.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – A little salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – This adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the filling.
• 1/2 cup corn syrup – This is what gives the filling its gooey, sticky goodness! It’s essential for that classic butter tart flavor.
• 2 large eggs – These help bind everything together and create that lovely texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – This adds a warm, inviting flavor that makes everything taste better.
• 1 cup chopped pecans – The star of the show! These provide that delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to whip up some of the best pecan butter tart squares you’ll ever taste!

How to Prepare Pecan Butter Tart Squares

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these scrumptious pecan butter tart squares! Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a delightful treat to share (or keep all to yourself!).

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, we need to preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps ensure even baking. If you throw your squares in a cold oven, they’ll bake unevenly—no one wants that! So, let it warm up while you get everything else ready.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. I like to use a fork or my fingers to mix it all together until it resembles a crumbly texture—think sandy but slightly moist. This is where you really want to blend the butter in well so it coats the flour. Once it’s mixed, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan. Pressing it down evenly is key to a great crust! It should be about a quarter-inch thick. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky; that’s normal!

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Now pop that crust into your preheated oven and bake it for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. You’ll smell that buttery goodness wafting through your kitchen—ah, it’s heavenly! Keep an eye on it because you don’t want to overbake; we’re looking for a nice golden color, not brown. If it starts to look too dark, take it out right away!

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, let’s whip up the filling! In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth. This is where the magic happens! Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth filling is what makes these squares so gooey and delicious. Once it’s well mixed, stir in the chopped pecans. They add that lovely crunch and nutty flavor!

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Once your crust is out of the oven and cooled slightly, pour the pecan filling right over it. Be careful to spread it evenly across the crust. Now, it’s time to bake again! Slide your pan back into the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle too much in the center. If you give it a gentle shake, it should be just slightly wobbly, but not liquidy. Let it cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. And voilà! You’ve made a delicious batch of pecan butter tart squares!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to dive into making these pecan butter tart squares, here are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and turns out perfectly!

• Soften Your Butter: Make sure your butter is truly softened before you start mixing. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend well and could leave lumps in your crust. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, you can cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep a close eye on both the crust and the filling while they bake. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking, especially the filling. If it looks too dark, take it out! The filling should be set, but still slightly wobbly.
• Let Them Cool: Patience is key! Allow your squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting. If you try to cut them too soon, they might fall apart. Trust me, the wait is worth it for those perfect, neat squares.
• Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding just a touch of salt enhances the sweet flavors and balances everything out. It may seem small, but it makes a big difference in taste!
• Mixing the Filling: When you whisk the filling, aim for a smooth, lump-free mixture. If you see any lumps of sugar or eggs, just keep whisking until it’s silky. This will give you that delightful gooey texture!
• Experiment with Pecans: Feel free to chop your pecans to your desired size! Some like them chunky for extra crunch, while others prefer them finely chopped. You can even mix in other nuts if you’re feeling adventurous—walnuts or almonds could work beautifully!
• Keep It Fresh: If you have leftovers (which is rare because these are so good!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for a slightly firmer texture if you prefer!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating the most delicious pecan butter tart squares that’ll impress everyone! Happy baking!

Variations on Pecan Butter Tart Squares

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about ways to get creative with your pecan butter tart squares! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, and you can easily make it your own with just a few tweaks. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Chocolate Delight: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Stir in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the filling for a rich, chocolaty twist. You can even melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled squares for an extra touch of indulgence!
• Nutty Mix: While pecans are the star here, you can mix in other nuts for added texture and flavor. Try using walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just chop them up and blend them in with the pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Dried Fruits: For a fruity boost, consider adding some chopped dried cherries, cranberries, or even raisins to the filling. They’ll add a chewy texture and a pop of flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Spiced Up: Want to warm things up a bit? Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger to the filling. These spices will give your squares a cozy, seasonal vibe that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings!
• Maple Syrup Swap: Replace the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor. It’ll give your squares a lovely maple taste that pairs wonderfully with the pecans.
• Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of your squares for an added layer of flavor and decadence. It’s a sweet touch that takes them from great to absolutely phenomenal!
• Gluten-Free Version: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the blend’s properties, as some may require additional binding agents.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients to create a recipe that’s uniquely yours. Get creative and have fun in the kitchen—after all, that’s what cooking is all about!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of these delightful pecan butter tart squares, let’s talk about how to serve them for maximum enjoyment! Trust me, the right pairing can elevate these little treats to a whole new level.

• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Oh wow, there’s nothing quite like warm pecan butter tart squares paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the gooey filling, creating a blissful contrast. You could also try it with caramel or butter pecan ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
• Drizzled with Whipped Cream: For a lighter option, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top can add a lovely touch. You can even sweeten the cream with a bit of vanilla or a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair.
• Paired with Coffee: If you’re a coffee lover like me, serving these squares alongside a steaming cup of coffee or espresso is a match made in heaven! The rich flavors of the pecans and the buttery filling beautifully complement the robust notes of your favorite brew.
• Enjoy with Tea: For a cozy afternoon treat, consider pairing your squares with a nice cup of herbal or black tea. The warmth of the tea and the sweetness of the squares make for a comforting combination that’s perfect for relaxing.
• Chopped and Served on a Platter: If you’re having guests over, why not cut these squares into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter? You can add some fresh fruit like berries or slices of pear for a pop of color and freshness!
• With a Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of elegance, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the squares before serving. It adds a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love!
• Warm or Cold: These pecan butter tart squares are delicious at any temperature! Serve them warm right out of the oven for a gooey treat, or let them cool and serve them cold for a firmer texture. You can’t go wrong either way!

So, there you have it! These serving suggestions will not only enhance the experience of enjoying your pecan butter tart squares but also make them a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Enjoy every last bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness of these delicious pecan butter tart squares! Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. Here’s a breakdown for one square:

• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

These squares are a delightful treat, so enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still offering a bit of that nutty goodness from the pecans. Happy indulging!

FAQs About Pecan Butter Tart Squares

Got questions about pecan butter tart squares? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my best answers to help you navigate this delicious recipe.

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! These pecan butter tart squares are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them a day or two in advance, and they’ll still taste amazing. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll be ready to go when you are!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big if!), store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for about three days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!

What can I substitute for corn syrup?

If you’re looking for a corn syrup substitute, you can use maple syrup or honey! Each will give your filling a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still work beautifully. Just keep in mind that using these alternatives might change the texture a bit, so adjust your baking time if needed.

Why did my filling turn out too runny?

Oh no! If your filling is too runny, it could be because it wasn’t baked long enough. Make sure to bake until the filling is set and only slightly wobbly in the center. It’s also important to mix your filling well to ensure everything is combined properly—no lumps allowed!

Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze pecan butter tart squares! Just cut them into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. They’ll freeze well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts if you prefer. Just chop them up and mix them in as you would with the pecans. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite nut combination!

Why are my squares crumbly?

If your squares turn out crumbly, it might be due to overbaking the crust or not pressing the crust mixture down firmly enough in the pan. Make sure to pack it down evenly and keep an eye on the baking time so they stay tender and delicious!

Hopefully, these FAQs help clear up any confusion and make your baking experience even better! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!

Pecan Butter Tart Squares: 7 Irresistibly Gooey Bites

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 16 squares 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pecan butter tart squares are a sweet treat that combines the rich flavor of pecans with a buttery filling, all in a simple square format.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, butter, sugar, and salt until crumbly.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
4. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
5. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
6. Add chopped pecans to the mixture and stir well.
7. Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust.
8. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set.
9. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
• Do not overbake to keep the filling gooey.
• Allow the squares to cool for easier cutting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pecan butter tart squares, dessert, baking, easy recipe