Butter tart squares are a very popular traditional sweet in many regions of Latin America and beyond. Their origin dates back to homemade European recipes that arrived on the continent with the colonizers and were adapted to the ingredients available in each country. In different parts of Latin America, this dessert may be known by various names such as "butter bars," "oatmeal and butter squares," or simply "butter tart." Their crunchy texture and sweet flavor with a touch of nuts make them a favorite for both snacks and special celebrations.
Furthermore, the combination of oats, nuts, and raisins provides nutritional value that has kept this recipe relevant over time in Latin American homes. It is a clear example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into an exquisite dessert with history and tradition. Depending on the country, some variants include the addition of spices like cinnamon or chocolate, but the essence of the butter tart square is preserved in its buttery base and the delicious filling mixture.
How to Prepare Butter Tart Squares
To begin with this delicious recipe, it is important to prepare the base by mixing the butter with the flour until a sandy texture is achieved. This is done by cutting the cold butter into the flour with a fork or with your hands, ensuring there are no large chunks.
Once the dough is ready, press this mixture into a greased 9x9-inch pan, distributing it evenly to form a solid base.
Place the pan in the oven preheated to 350°F (approximately 175°C) and bake the base for 15 minutes, until it begins to brown slightly.
While the base is baking, prepare the filling by mixing the brown sugar, eggs, oats, salt, vanilla extract, chopped nuts, and raisins. Be sure to combine all the ingredients well to achieve a homogeneous mixture.
When the base is partially baked, pour the filling over it and return the pan to the oven for 20 more minutes, or until the filling has set and is golden on the surface.
Finally, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting it into squares to serve. This will make cutting easier and maintain the shape of each portion.
