Canadian Butter Tarts
Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe | Delicious Canadian Treats
Introduction
Butter tarts are a classic Canadian dessert that are sweet, gooey, and absolutely delicious. They are a staple at holiday gatherings and bake sales, and are loved by many for their rich, buttery flavor and flaky pastry crust.
History
Butter tarts have been a beloved Canadian treat for generations, with recipes dating back to the early 1900s. The exact origins of the butter tart are unknown, but they are thought to have been inspired by traditional British tarts and pies. Today, butter tarts are a popular dessert across Canada, with each region putting its own unique spin on the classic recipe.
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup (0.5 stick) softened butter
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup light corn syrup
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 0.5 cup raisins
- 0.5 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 x 8 oz (227 g) box frozen pastry shells (the box should contain 8 shells)
How to prepare
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar.
- Add the corn syrup and eggs, stirring until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla, raisins, and walnuts.
- Place the pastry shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Divide the custard evenly among the 8 pastry shells.
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until the custard is set in the middle of each tart.
Variations
- You can add in different mix-ins such as chocolate chips, coconut, or dried cranberries.
- For a savory twist, you can add bacon or cheese to the filling.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use cold butter when making the pastry crust to ensure a flaky texture.
- For a richer flavor, you can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- If you don't like raisins or walnuts, you can easily customize the recipe by adding in your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or pecans.
Serving Suggestions
Canadian Butter Tarts are best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Techniques
Make sure to preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can result in a tough texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have corn syrup, you can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute.
- You can use store-bought pie crust instead of frozen pastry shells.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake the tarts.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the butter tarts on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Canadian Butter Tarts pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the tarts in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warm.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Canadian Butter Tarts contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Canadian Butter Tarts contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Canadian Butter Tarts contains approximately 15g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Canadian Butter Tarts contains approximately 3g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Canadian Butter Tarts are not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Canadian Butter Tarts contain dairy, eggs, and nuts.
Summary
Canadian Butter Tarts are a delicious treat that are high in carbohydrates and fats, making them a rich and indulgent dessert option.
Summary
Canadian Butter Tarts are a delicious and indulgent dessert that are perfect for any occasion. With a rich, buttery filling and flaky pastry crust, these tarts are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of red and gold, and there was a chill in the air that hinted at the coming winter. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who lived in a cozy little cottage on the outskirts of town. Margaret was a wonderful cook, and I always looked forward to sampling her latest creations.
On this particular day, Margaret had a twinkle in her eye as she ushered me into her kitchen. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "I'm going to teach you how to make my famous Canadian Butter Tarts."
I had never heard of Canadian Butter Tarts before, but I was intrigued. Margaret was originally from Canada, and she had a treasure trove of recipes from her homeland. I eagerly watched as she gathered the ingredients and began to explain the process.
"These tarts are a Canadian classic," Margaret explained. "They are sweet and gooey, with a rich buttery filling that melts in your mouth. They are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a holiday feast."
As Margaret demonstrated how to make the pastry dough, I listened intently, taking in every detail. She explained the importance of using cold butter and handling the dough gently to ensure a flaky texture. I watched as she rolled out the dough and carefully cut it into small circles to fit into the tart pans.
Next, Margaret prepared the filling. She mixed together brown sugar, butter, and eggs, and added a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. The rich aroma of the filling filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.
Once the tarts were assembled, Margaret popped them into the oven to bake. As we waited for them to cook, she regaled me with stories of her childhood in Canada, and the traditions and recipes that had been passed down through generations. I could sense the love and nostalgia she felt for her homeland, and I was honored to be learning one of her cherished recipes.
Finally, the tarts were ready, their golden crusts glistening with a sugary glaze. Margaret carefully removed them from the oven and allowed them to cool before serving. I eagerly took my first bite, savoring the sweet, buttery filling and flaky pastry. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a perfect combination of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds.
From that moment on, Canadian Butter Tarts became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, and they never failed to impress my family and friends. Whenever I baked them, I would think of Margaret and the day she had shared her recipe with me, passing on a piece of her heritage and love through the simple act of cooking.
Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Canadian Butter Tarts for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. Margaret may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in every perfect bite of these delicious tarts. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Categories
| Brown Sugar Recipes | Canadian Desserts | Canadian Recipes | Egg Recipes | Light Corn Syrup Recipes | Pie Recipes | Raisin Recipes | Walnut Recipes |