Maple Squares

Maple Squares or Maple Syrup Bars are made with real maple syrup so every single bite in insanely rich and delicious. These maple syrup bars are so easy to make, and such a traditional dessert to serve up. The filling reminds me of a little of what you find in a butter tart (another addiction of mine). I guess it's somewhat similar, but instead of using corn syrup, maple syrup is used instead. I only buy the real maple syrup. It's a little more expensive, but the taste makes up for the extra money you spend. It's so worth it.

Base:
½ cup butter, softened
¼ cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour, unbleached

Topping:
1 cup pure maple syrup
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup walnuts, chopped
¼ cup butter
2 eggs
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour, unbleached
1 pinch sea salt

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C/155°C fan, Gas Mark 3).

Make the Base:
Combine butter, brown sugar and flour and stir until the mixture is crumbly. Press mixture into an 8 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Topping:
In a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar and walnuts and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add butter and stir until melted.

In a bowl, beat the eggs with the flour and salt. Add egg mixture to maple syrup mixture and stir to combine. Pour over the base and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until set.

Cool completely before cutting.