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Canadian Butter Tarts

Deliciously sweet and gooey, Canadian Butter Tarts feature a flaky crust and a customizable filling that makes them the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Canadian
Servings 12 tarts
Calories 210 kcal

Ingrédients
  

For the crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed Ensure butter is cold for flaky crust.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water Add gradually until dough holds together.

For the filling

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup Can substitute with maple syrup or agave.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs Can substitute with egg replacer for vegan option.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup raisins or pecans (optional) Add according to preference.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and salt using a pastry cutter or your fingers until coarse crumbs form.
  • Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together without being sticky.

Assembly

  • Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
  • Cut out circles and fit them into tart pans or muffin tins, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Chill the crusts in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Filling

  • In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Stir in raisins or pecans, if desired.
  • Remove the crusts from the refrigerator and carefully pour the filling into each tart shell, filling them three-quarters full.

Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the filling is set and the tops are slightly puffed, while the crust turns golden brown.
  • Allow to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

  • Enjoy your Canadian Butter Tarts as is or serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the dough for a flaky pastry, and ensure to chill the dough to prevent shrinkage. Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite combination.
Keyword Baking, Butter Tarts, Canadian Desserts, Dessert Recipes, Sweet Treats