Sunday Roast

 

Canadian Butter Tarts

If you love desserts that are buttery, gooey, and absolutely irresistible, then Canadian Butter Tarts are a must-try! This iconic Canadian treat features a flaky pastry shell filled with a rich, caramel-like filling that melts in your mouth. Whether you like them plain or with raisins or nuts, this easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Let’s get baking!

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Butter Tarts Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 6 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup corn syrup
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. If using raisins or nuts, divide them evenly among the tart shells before pouring in the filling.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Using a round cutter or glass, cut circles and fit them into a muffin tin to form tart shells.
4. Spoon the filling into each tart shell, filling them about ¾ full.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the pastry is golden brown.
6. Let the tarts cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin.

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Tips for Perfect Butter Tarts

• For a runnier filling, reduce the baking time slightly.
• If you like a firmer filling, bake for the full 20 minutes.
• Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling gives a warm, spiced flavor.
• Store leftover butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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Enjoy Your Homemade Butter Tarts!

Now you have a simple and delicious recipe to make traditional Canadian Butter Tarts at home. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, with or without nuts, these sweet treats will surely become a family favorite. Happy baking!

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