Among Newfoundland’s most beloved homemade desserts, Partridgeberry Squares stand out as a true taste of the island. These soft, buttery bars with a bright, tangy filling are a festive favorite that bring warmth to kitchens across Atlantic Canada — especially during the holidays.
Made with simple pantry staples and the region’s famous tart partridgeberries, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and zing. Every bite captures the comfort and nostalgia of traditional Newfoundland baking — flaky crust, luscious berry center, and that golden, crumbly top that practically melts in your mouth.
What Are Partridgeberry Squares?
Partridgeberries, known elsewhere as lingonberries, are small, deep-red berries that thrive in Newfoundland’s cool, coastal climate. They’re prized for their tart flavor, much like cranberries, but with a slightly more complex and earthy tone.
Partridgeberry Squares are a layered dessert bar featuring a buttery shortbread-style base and top, with a thick, glossy berry filling in the middle. They’re a common sight at bake sales, holiday tables, and Sunday suppers throughout the province — a true embodiment of Newfoundland’s resourceful and heartwarming home baking tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the crust and topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
For the filling:
- 2 cups partridgeberries (fresh or frozen; cranberries can be used as a substitute)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, and sugar. Blend until the mixture resembles soft crumbs and begins to hold together when pressed.
Press half of this dough firmly into a lightly greased 8×8-inch baking pan to form the bottom crust. Reserve the other half for the topping.
2. Make the Berry Filling
In a small saucepan, combine the partridgeberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Simmer gently over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the berries begin to burst. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes.
The result should be a glossy, jam-like consistency — rich, vibrant, and fragrant.
3. Assemble the Layers
Pour the berry filling evenly over the bottom crust. Crumble or gently press the remaining dough mixture over the top to create a rustic upper layer.
You can leave small gaps to let the berry color peek through — that’s part of the charm.
4. Bake Until Golden
Place the pan in a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and crisp.
Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting. The filling will set as it cools, making neat slices easier to achieve.
Serving Ideas
Partridgeberry Squares are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. Serve them:
- As part of a holiday dessert tray
- With a dollop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat
They also make lovely gift squares for friends and neighbors during festive seasons.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerated: Keep for up to 5 days for longer freshness.
- Frozen: These squares freeze beautifully. Layer them with parchment paper and store up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Helpful Baking Tips
- Don’t skip cooling: The filling needs time to set before cutting.
- Use real butter: It gives that rich, authentic Newfoundland flavor.
- Try cranberries: If partridgeberries aren’t available, cranberries work perfectly with just a touch more sugar.
- Rustic is beautiful: These squares aren’t meant to look overly perfect — their homemade charm is part of their appeal.
A Taste of Newfoundland Tradition
Every region in Newfoundlandhas its own version of this treasured dessert, often passed down through generations. Whether made for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinner, Partridgeberry Squares carry the taste of the island’s wild landscapes — tart berries gathered from rocky hillsides and baked into something simple, cozy, and delicious.
This dessert is more than a recipe; it’s a small piece of Atlantic Canadian heritage baked into every golden square.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12–16 squares
Cuisine: Newfoundland / Canadian
FAQs
Can I use frozen partridgeberries?
Yes. Use them straight from the freezer; no need to thaw first.
What’s the best substitute for partridgeberries?
Cranberries or lingonberries are excellent substitutes with similar tartness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch.
How do I know when it’s baked?
The top should be lightly golden and firm to the touch, and the berry filling should bubble slightly around the edges.
Final Thoughts
Partridgeberry Squares are the perfect mix of old-fashioned Newfoundland comfort and modern-day sweetness. Whether you grew up on these or are discovering them for the first time, they offer a timeless taste of Atlantic hospitality — one buttery, berry-filled bite at a time.