Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe

OMG, I just whipped up these legendary butter tarts, and let me tell you, they’re basically little bites of Canadian heaven! The combination of gooey filling and perfectly baked crust totally made my day—I’m basically living my best sweet tooth life right now. 🌟🥧

The delicious taste of Canadian Butter Tarts is an obsession of mine. The tarts start with a base of unsalted butter and brown sugar, which they strike an exceptional balance of flavor and sweetness.

But then you hit the crust. In Annie’s version, the crust is not a single note but rather a lightly spiced ensemble.

Ground almonds (or nuts of your choice) stop the crust from getting too tough and add another layer of flavor, while the spices bring out the flavor of the filling without competing with it.

Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Provides rich flavor; essential for creamy texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture; contains molasses.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent; provide protein and structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances depth of flavor; adds aromatic sweetness.
• Corn Syrup: Contributes to smooth texture and rich sweetness.
• Raisins/Currants: Optional; add natural sweetness and chewy texture.

Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 12 prepared tart shells

How to Make this Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe

1. Prepare your oven by heating it to a temperature of 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).

2. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, warm the butter until melted.

3. Take the saucepan off the heat and blend in the brown sugar so that it forms a uniform mixture with the rest of the contents.

4. In a distinct bowl, beat the eggs, and then add them to the mixture of butter and sugar. Also include in this mixture the following ingredients: vanilla extract, white vinegar, and corn syrup. Mix everything together until the end result is smooth.

5. Mix in the salt.

6. If you are using them, fold the raisins or currants in until they are evenly distributed.

7. Put the tart shells that have been prepared on a baking sheet.

8. Gently fill each tart shell with the filling, pouring about two-thirds full.

9. In the oven that has been heated up, bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and still has a slight jiggle to it.

10. Take the tarts out of the oven and allow them to cool fully before serving. This helps the tarts achieve that delicate, but not runny, texture for which butter tarts are known. Now, you can enjoy the tarts that have been the subject of much debate across Canada.

Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Medium saucepan
3. Mixing spoon or spatula
4. Distinct mixing bowl
5. Whisk
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Baking sheet

FAQ

• Q: Can I use store-bought tart shells for this recipe?
  
  A: Yes, you can use store-bought tart shells to save time, or you can make your own from scratch if you prefer a homemade touch.
• Q: Are the raisins or currants essential to the recipe?
  
  A: No, the raisins or currants are optional and can be omitted if you prefer plain butter tarts.
• Q: Can I substitute honey or maple syrup for the corn syrup?
  
  A: You can substitute maple syrup for a unique flavor, but it will alter the taste and texture slightly. Honey can also be used, though it may result in a different consistency.
• Q: How should I store leftover butter tarts?
  
  A: Store leftover butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Q: Can these tarts be frozen?
  
  A: Yes, butter tarts can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Q: What can I use instead of white vinegar?
  
  A: You can use lemon juice as an alternative to white vinegar to add acidity and balance the sweetness.
• Q: Can I add nuts to the filling?
  
  A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added to the filling for additional texture and flavor.

Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If unsalted butter is not available, substitute it with an equal amount of margarine or coconut oil.
For brown sugar, use the same amount of granulated sugar. But beware: there may be alterations in flavor and texture as a result of this substitution.
Replace white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Replace corn syrup with the same quantity of maple syrup or honey, and get a different sweetness.
Instead of raisins, use chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or simply omit them for a filling that’s entirely plain.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-bake the Tart Shells: Blind bake the tart shells for about 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. This will ensure they stay crisp and don’t become soggy when the filling is added.