Dutch Butter Squares
Dutch Butter Squares are rich, buttery treats with a crisp exterior and tender interior. These simple, nostalgic squares are perfect for tea time or special occasions, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and buttery flavor that appeals to all ages. Easy to prepare and utterly addictive.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter in a large mixing bowl; gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and beat well.
- Gradually stir in flour, blending well (dough will be sticky).
- Divide dough in half.
- Place each portion of dough in a well-greased 8-inch square pan.
- With floured hands, press dough evenly into pans. Place pans in cold oven.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until light brown.
- Cut into 2-inch squares while warm.
- Remove from pans, cool on wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Make sure to flour your hands well when pressing the dough into the pans to prevent sticking. Also, allow the dough to rest for a few minutes before baking to enhance the texture. This recipe can be adapted to create different flavors by adding vanilla or almond extract.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful squares are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them alongside a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a lovely dessert. For a festive twist, consider serving them at gatherings with dishes like Russian Salad or Chruscik.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dutch Butter Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Butter Squares contains roughly 207 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 17g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser. It’s recommended to use a mix of both for a lighter result. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to work with. Alternatively, you can dust your hands and the surface with a little more flour while pressing it into the pan.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your Dutch Butter Squares. Just fold them into the dough after adding the egg, ensuring they are evenly distributed before pressing the dough into the pan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).