Delicious Pecan Butter Tart Squares for Comforting Joy

pecan butter tart squares

By:

Julia marin

Oh, let me tell you about my love for pecan butter tart squares! These little bites of heaven hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy gatherings with family and friends. There’s something about the buttery crust paired with the sweet, gooey pecan filling that just warms the soul. I remember the first time I made these for a potluck; the way people raved about them made me feel like a superstar in the kitchen! Trust me, once you get a taste of these pecan butter tart squares, you’ll understand why they’re a must-have dessert. They’re not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, you can feel good about sharing them, knowing everyone will enjoy a delightful treat. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious squares together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious pecan butter tart squares. I promise, these ingredients are simple and easy to find!

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base for your crust, giving it that lovely texture.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily into the flour and sugar.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar – This adds a nice, rich sweetness to your crust.
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped – These give our squares that classic pecan flavor and a delightful crunch!
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup – This will make the filling gooey and sweet—just what we want!
  • 2 large eggs – They help to bind everything together in our delicious filling.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

And there you have it, all the ingredients you’ll need! It’s all about simple pleasures, and trust me, these squares will bring a smile to your face!

How to Prepare Pecan Butter Tart Squares

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part—making these delightful pecan butter tart squares! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each step, and I promise it’s easier than it looks. Let’s get started!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step because a hot oven ensures our squares bake up just right!
  2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, softened butter, and brown sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I like using a fork or my hands for this—it’s a bit messy but oh-so-satisfying!
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly, creating a nice base for our gooey filling.
  4. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. This step is crucial because it gives the crust a lovely firmness and flavor.
  5. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another bowl, combine the corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth.
  6. Stir in your chopped pecans until they’re evenly coated and well mixed. This is the part where the magic happens—those pecans are going to create such a wonderful texture!
  7. Once the crust is ready, carefully pour the pecan mixture over it. Spread it out gently to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
  8. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set. You’ll know it’s done when it’s slightly puffed and a bit jiggly in the center. But don’t worry, it will firm up as it cools!
  9. Allow the squares to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. Patience is key here; it’ll be worth the wait!

And there you have it! Easy steps to create your pecan butter tart squares. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’ll impress everyone!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your pecan butter tart squares turn out perfectly every time! Here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

  • Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter and eggs at room temperature helps them mix more easily, giving you a better texture.
  • Don’t overmix the crust: When mixing the flour, butter, and brown sugar, just mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust, and we definitely want it to be tender!
  • For gluten-free options: You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. It works wonderfully and still delivers that delicious taste.
  • For a vegan twist: Swap out the butter for coconut oil and replace the eggs with flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). It’s a great way to enjoy these squares without the animal products!
  • Keep an eye on baking times: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You want the filling to be set but still a touch jiggly in the center.
  • Let them cool completely: Allow the squares to cool in the baking dish before cutting. This will help them hold their shape and make slicing easier.

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making pecan butter tart squares in no time! Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of our delicious pecan butter tart squares! Please keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. Generally, for one square, you can expect the following:

  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g

These little squares are a sweet treat, so enjoy them in moderation! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or family, and everyone will appreciate the delightful flavors wrapped up in each bite. Happy indulging!

FAQ Section

I know you might have some questions about making these pecan butter tart squares, so let’s tackle them together! Here are some common queries I often hear:

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are a classic, you can easily swap them for walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just chop them up the same way, and you’ll still have a delicious treat!

What if I don’t have corn syrup?
No worries! You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey. Just keep in mind that this might change the flavor slightly, but they’ll still be yummy!

Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can! These squares actually taste even better after a day or two. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

How should I cut the squares for serving?
I recommend using a sharp knife and cutting them into smaller squares for easy serving. It’s also nice to have a little bite-sized treat to enjoy with coffee or tea!

Can I freeze the pecan butter tart squares?
Definitely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving!

What’s the best way to reheat them?
If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they might get too gooey!

Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you make the best pecan butter tart squares possible. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe easy and approachable, even for novice bakers!
  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and sweet, gooey pecan filling creates a rich taste that’s simply irresistible.
  • Comforting Treat: These squares are perfect for cozy family gatherings, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
  • Versatile: Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet snack or serving them at a special occasion, they’re sure to impress everyone!
  • Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs with gluten-free or vegan alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: These squares can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delightful the next day.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into small squares and watch how quickly they disappear at parties—everyone loves a delicious treat!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made your scrumptious pecan butter tart squares, let’s talk about how to elevate your dessert experience even further! These squares are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can take them to a whole new level.

Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea is the perfect match for these sweet squares. The rich flavors of the pecan filling complement a nice, robust coffee, while a calming herbal tea can enhance the overall experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lovely lightness and creaminess that balances the sweetness of the squares. You could even add a touch of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the whipped cream for extra flavor!

Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re feeling indulgent, serve these pecan butter tart squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast of the warm, gooey square with the cold, creamy ice cream is simply heavenly!

Fruit Compote: A drizzle of berry compote or a fresh fruit salad can also brighten up the plate. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness and adds a refreshing touch to each bite.

Cheese Platter: For a different twist, consider serving these squares with a cheese platter. Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese bring a nice creaminess that pairs well with the nutty flavors of the pecans.

Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood and the occasion. No matter how you serve them, your pecan butter tart squares will surely be a hit!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious pecan butter tart squares, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers (if there are any!). Proper storage will keep them fresh and tasty for days, so here’s what you need to know:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the squares to cool completely in the baking dish. Once they’ve cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. Layer them carefully with parchment paper between the squares to prevent sticking. You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. Just make sure they’re sealed well to keep that delightful flavor intact!

Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, these pecan butter tart squares freeze beautifully! Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just move them to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Reheating: To enjoy your squares warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the squares on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just be cautious not to overheat them, as it can make the filling too gooey!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your pecan butter tart squares even longer! Enjoy every bite, whether freshly baked or reheated!

pecan butter tart squares - detail 1

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
pecan butter tart squares

Delicious Pecan Butter Tart Squares for Comforting Joy


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

Description

Delicious pecan butter tart squares that are easy to make.


Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, butter, and brown sugar until crumbly.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  5. In another bowl, combine corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, and salt.
  6. Stir in pecans.
  7. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust.
  8. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until set.
  9. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • For gluten-free, use almond flour.
  • For vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pecan butter tart squares, dessert, baking

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating