Looking for a heartfelt homemade gift that’s both delicious and beautifully rustic? This DIY Butter Tart Square Kit in a Jar captures the flavor of one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic treats—gooey, golden butter tart squares—layered in a charming mason jar, ready to bake.
Perfect for holidays, birthdays, teacher gifts, or thoughtful thank-yous, this edible gift is simple to assemble and brings a touch of Canadian warmth to any kitchen.
Why This Jar Gift Works
- Inspired by a Canadian Classic: Butter tarts are a beloved part of Nova Scotian heritage—this version turns them into an easy-to-make square format.
- Ready-to-Bake Convenience: Recipients only need to add butter, eggs, and vanilla to create chewy, caramelized bars.
- Beautiful Presentation: The layers of flour, sugar, raisins, and pecans are visually striking in a clear jar.
- Perfect for Gifting: Add a ribbon, tag, and a handwritten note to make it personal.
Ingredients for 1 Quart Jar
Layer the following ingredients in a clean 1-quart mason jar (in order for best visual effect):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup golden raisins or currants
- Optional: A light sprinkle of sea salt on top for flavor contrast
Press each layer down gently to create clean, defined stripes.
Tag Instructions (To Attach to Jar)
Baking Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix the jar contents.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, ½ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, then spread evenly into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and set.
Cool before slicing. Makes approximately 16 squares.
Gifting Tips
- Make it Festive: Add a round of fabric under the lid and tie with rustic twine or colorful ribbon.
- Personal Touch: Handwrite the instructions or use printable labels for a polished look.
- Bundle It: Include a mini spatula, cookie cutter, or mug of tea for a cozy-themed gift.
- Keep It Fresh: Use airtight jars and fresh ingredients to extend shelf life (up to 1 month if stored cool and dry).
See the full recipe of how to make : Easy Canadian Butter Tarts with Raisins: Classic Gooey Raisin or Maple Pecan
Pro Tip
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping pecans for walnuts, or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry mix for extra warmth.
Searching for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s as tasty as it is charming? This DIY Butter Tart Square Kit in a Jar brings the rich, gooey goodness of Nova Scotia’s beloved butter tart squares together in a beautifully layered, ready-to-bake mason jar.
DIY Butter Tart Square Kit (In a Jar)
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the jar contents.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, ½ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until fully mixed.
- Spread evenly into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Let cool completely, then slice into squares and enjoy.