Sunday Roast

 Homemade Butter Tarts: A Classic Canadian Delight

Butter tarts are a beloved Canadian treat, known for their rich, gooey filling encased in a flaky pastry shell. These sweet delights have been a staple in Canadian kitchens for generations, with variations ranging from runny to firm fillings, with or without raisins or nuts. If you’re looking to make your own homemade butter tarts, this recipe will guide you through creating the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup cold water

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 cup corn syrup or maple syrup

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water, stirring just until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in raisins or pecans, if using.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass and press them into a muffin tin.
3. Spoon the filling into each pastry shell, filling about 2/3 full.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the pastry is golden brown.
2. Let the tarts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy!

Serve your homemade butter tarts warm or at room temperature. These sweet treats pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply indulging in a Canadian classic. Let us know how yours turned out in the comments below!

Edit This Article