Shortbread Bars Topped with Butter Tart

buttery shortbread bars are the perfect balance of crumbly and sweet, topped with a rich, gooey butter tart filling. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.

★★★★☆4(1 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 15 min

Cook Time 45 min

Total Time 1 hr

Difficulty Hard

Ingredients 0/8

¼ cup confectioners' sugar 2 cups all-purpose flour ¼ teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1 cup brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ½ cup raisins

Why You'll Love Making This

These bars combine a buttery, crumbly base with a sweet, gooey topping that offers the perfect balance of textures. The rich flavors and simple ingredients make them a comforting treat for any occasion.

Tips For Better Flavor

- Use cold butter when making the crust to achieve a tender, flaky texture.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to prevent crumbling after baking.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help the topping set properly.

Step 1

Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the butter and powdered sugar with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the flour and salt, stirring until everything comes together. Press this dough evenly into a 9-inch square baking pan.

Step 2

Pop the pan into the oven and bake until the crust turns a light golden color, which should take about 14 minutes. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for around 10 minutes, but keep the oven on.

Step 3

While the crust is cooling, whisk the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until well combined. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the cooled crust, then pour the egg mixture on top.

Step 4

Put the pan back in the oven and bake until the filling is set and springs back when you gently press it, about 30 minutes. Let it cool completely before slicing into bars. Enjoy!

Serving Recommendations

Serve these bars slightly warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair nicely with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.

Refrigeration Tips

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months, thawing before serving.

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By Arjun Patel

Recipe Contributor

Arjun enjoys creating straightforward recipes that work well in real kitchens.