butter tart square

Ingredients:

Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water

Filling:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until dough forms. Press dough evenly into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the crust: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Add cream and nuts (if using): Beat in heavy cream until combined. Stir in chopped nuts, if using.
6. Pour filling over crust: Pour filling over baked crust and smooth top.
7. Bake until set: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until filling is set and edges are golden.
8. Cool and cut: Let cool completely in pan before cutting into squares.

Tips:

– Use high-quality ingredients, including real butter and pure vanilla extract.
– Don’t overbake the crust or filling, as this can cause them to become too dark or dry.
– If using nuts, toast them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant to enhance flavor.