Butter Tart Squares

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks)
2. Dark brown sugar: 1/2 cup
3. Maple syrup: 1/4 cup
4. Egg: 2 large
5. All-purpose flour: 1 cup + 2 tablespoons
6. Rolled oats: 1/2 cup
7. Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
8. Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
9. Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
10. Pecan halves or walnuts: 1/2 cup, chopped (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Total time: about 1 hour (including baking time)
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the maple syrup and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the flour, oats, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. If using nuts, add them now.
5. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each square for expansion.
6. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and set. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total squares)

• Calories: 350-400 (depending on the addition of nuts)
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 4-6g

Dish Characteristics:

• A classic American dessert with a rich buttery flavor and a hint of maple sweetness.
• The addition of oats gives it a unique texture and added nutrition.
• Can be customized with different types of nuts or even chocolate chips for a more indulgent version.

User Comments:

1. "These were so delicious! The perfect balance of sweet and savory." - John Doe, New York City
2. "I loved the combination of flavors and the texture was spot on." - Jane Smith, San Francisco
3. "Made these for my family and they were a hit! Will definitely make again." - Michael Johnson, Los Angeles

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to mix the dough to ensure even mixing.
• Be careful not to overbake or the squares will become hard and dry. Check them frequently towards the end of baking time.
• Customize the recipe by adding different types of nuts or even dried fruits for a unique twist.