Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and cubed butter. Mix with an electric mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure it is evenly distributed. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Stir in the raisins.
6. Pour the mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown.
8. Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 12-16 squares
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 85mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 34g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of raisins, you can use chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- If you don't have corn syrup, you can use maple syrup or honey.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the squares for a sweet and salty flavor.
- Use a mixture of dark and light brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the filling for a boozy twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is chilled when making the crust for a flakier texture.
- If the filling starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil.
- Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting to prevent the filling from oozing out.
Storage Instructions:
Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the squares in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the squares on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or drizzle with caramel sauce.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Fresh fruit or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it comes together.
- If the filling is too runny, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the squares in an airtight container to prevent bacteria growth.
Food History:
Butter tarts are a Canadian dessert that originated in the early 1900s. They are a sweet pastry filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.
Flavor Profiles:
Sweet, buttery, and slightly caramelized.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the squares warm or at room temperature.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Region: Canadian
Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Nutty, Rich, Caramelized, sweet, rich, buttery, caramelized, flaky