Canadian Butter Tarts: The Ultimate Butter Tart Recipe
Introduction to Canadian Butter Tarts
Canadian Butter Tarts are a delightful treat that captures the essence of sweet simplicity. These gooey, caramel-like tarts are a staple in Canadian baking culture, offering a buttery crust filled with a rich, sweet mixture. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack, butter tarts are a beloved comfort food that brings a taste of home to any gathering. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these tarts are not just delicious; they are a symbol of Canadian heritage.
A Personal Story Behind My Canadian Butter Tarts Journey
Growing up in Canada, I have fond memories of my grandmother baking butter tarts during the holidays. The aroma of sweet caramel and baked pastry wafting through the house was simply irresistible. I remember gathering in the kitchen with family, eagerly waiting for the tarts to cool so we could enjoy them warm, straight from the oven. This recipe is inspired by those cherished moments, and I hope it brings your family as much joy as it brought mine.
What Makes This Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe Special?
This butter tart recipe is unique because it combines simple ingredients to create a complex flavor profile. The rich filling, made with brown sugar and corn syrup, provides that iconic gooey texture, while the addition of raisins adds a delightful chewy contrast. Plus, this recipe is customizable; you can easily add nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. It’s a forgiving recipe that can adapt to your preferences, making it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
The Full Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) corn syrup
- 1/4 cup (60g) butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (60g) raisins
- 12 unbaked tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your tarts bake evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth filling.
- Evenly divide the raisins among the tart shells. This adds a wonderful texture and sweetness to each bite.
- Pour the sugar mixture over the raisins in each tart shell, filling them about 2/3 full. Be careful not to overfill, as the mixture will bubble while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Once baked, allow the tarts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Canadian Butter Tarts
These butter tarts are delicious on their own, but you can elevate their presentation by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a twist, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch and flavor. You can even experiment with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, though I doubt they’ll last that long!
Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Butter Tarts
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for the tart shells?
Yes, store-bought pie crusts work well if you’re short on time. Just make sure to cut them to fit your tart pans.
Can I freeze butter tarts?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked tarts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover tarts?
The best way to reheat leftover tarts is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will refresh the crust and filling nicely.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 280
- Servings: 12
Enjoy the sweet and gooey goodness of homemade butter tarts!
Canadian Butter Tarts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup corn syrup
- 0.25 cup butter, melted
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup raisins
- 12 count unbaked tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Evenly divide the raisins among the tart shells.
- Pour the sugar mixture over the raisins in each tart shell, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the tarts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.