Canadian Butter Tarts are a beloved dessert that brings a touch of sweetness and a lot of joy. They feature a flaky crust filled with a rich, gooey mixture of brown sugar, corn syrup, and eggs. Sometimes, you may find raisins or walnuts tucked inside, adding a nice texture. These tarts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple treat at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Canadian Butter Tarts is not just about enjoying a delicious dessert; it’s also about embracing a piece of Canadian culture. This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful dessert that impresses family and friends. Plus, the satisfaction of baking from scratch and sharing your tasty treats is unmatched!
How to Make Canadian Butter Tarts
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins or walnuts (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in sugar. Add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit the muffin tin.
- Press the dough into the muffin tin cups.
- In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
- Spoon the mixture into the pastry-lined cups, filling them about 2/3 full. Add raisins or walnuts if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are golden brown.
- Let cool before removing from the tin.
How to Serve Canadian Butter Tarts
Canadian Butter Tarts are best served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pairing them with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful treat any time of day.
How to Store Canadian Butter Tarts
To store your Canadian Butter Tarts, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Canadian Butter Tarts
- For a flakier crust, make sure your butter is cold when mixing.
- Don’t overfill the tarts; leave some space at the top to prevent spills.
- If you’re a fan of a chewy texture, use raisins, or for a crunch, go with walnuts.
- Be careful not to bake them too long; you want the filling to be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Variations
You can easily customize Canadian Butter Tarts. Some people enjoy adding chocolate chips to the filling for a rich twist. Others prefer using maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or dried fruits as well!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days or freeze it for longer use.
2. What can I substitute for corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
3. How do I know when the tarts are done?
The tarts are done when the filling is set and the tops are golden brown. A slight jiggle in the center is okay!
Bake these delightful Canadian Butter Tarts and share them with your loved ones. Enjoy the sweet taste of this wonderful dessert!
