These buttery shortbread bars capture all the sweet, gooey goodness of a classic butter tart in an easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea, they’re sure to become a new favorite treat.
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together 7/8 cup of butter and the confectioners' sugar with a spoon until the mixture is nice and smooth. Then stir in the flour and salt until everything’s combined. Press this dough evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan.
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 14 minutes, or until the crust turns a light golden color. Once it's done, take it out and let it cool for around 10 minutes while keeping the oven on.
Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the cooled crust, then carefully pour the egg mixture over the top.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the filling is set and springs back when you gently touch it. Let the bars cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Use cold butter to ensure a flaky and tender shortbread crust.
- Press the dough evenly into the pan to avoid uneven baking.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to keep the filling from oozing out.
These bars combine the rich, buttery texture of shortbread with the sweet, gooey filling reminiscent of classic butter tarts. They offer a perfect balance of crispness and chewiness in every bite. This treat is both nostalgic and easy to make, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Serve these bars slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair nicely with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Allow chilled bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
