Canadian Butter Tarts are the quintessential sweet treat you’ll find in every bakery case and family gathering across Canada. These delightful little pastries boast a crisp, flaky shell cradling a gooey, caramel-like filling that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or tasting them for the first time, Canadian Butter Tarts are that nostalgic, decadent dessert you’ll want to bake on repeat for every special occasion—or when you simply crave something deliciously homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised at how few ingredients are required for Canadian Butter Tarts, yet each one is essential for capturing that signature flavor and texture. From the richness of butter to the subtle tang of vinegar, every component brings the tarts together in perfect harmony.
- 3-inch tart shells (about 12), unbaked: These ensure a perfect crisp base for your gooey filling. Store-bought or homemade both work beautifully!
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): The star ingredient, butter creates that luxurious richness in the filling.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): This adds a deep caramel note and helps create that soft, gooey center.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs bind everything together and add just the right amount of custardy structure.
- Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): A splash of cream enhances the silky texture of the filling.
- White vinegar (1 tablespoon): A tiny bit helps balance the sweetness while setting the filling.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla rounds out the flavors with warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint to enhance sweetness and deepen flavor.
- Raisins or chopped pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For a classic touch or a nutty crunch—choose your adventure!
How to Make Canadian Butter Tarts
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shells
Start by placing your tart shells on a baking sheet, making sure they’re evenly spaced. If you’re using frozen or store-bought shells, there’s no need to thaw—just separate and arrange. This first step is all about setting the stage for that signature crisp, golden crust.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Brown Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar. Use a wooden spoon or hand mixer, blending until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy. This is where you create the deep, toffee-like base that sets Canadian Butter Tarts apart.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the heavy cream, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be glossy and pourable—the anticipation builds!
Step 4: Add the Raisins or Pecans
If you love tradition, scatter raisins at the bottom of each tart shell. For a twist, use chopped pecans, or even split the difference between the two. Dividing the add-ins evenly ensures each tart packs a little surprise in every bite.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour the luscious filling into the prepared shells, filling them about two-thirds of the way (don’t overfill, as the filling bubbles up as it bakes). Slip the baking sheet into a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes for an oozy, runny center, or 17-20 minutes if you prefer a firmer set. The pastry should be golden and the filling slightly jiggly.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once they’re out of the oven, let your tarts cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes—they’ll firm up just enough to come out without falling apart. Then transfer them gently to a wire rack to finish cooling. The aroma alone will be impossible to resist!
How to Serve Canadian Butter Tarts
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup elevates each tart from simply classic to absolutely irresistible. If you want to delight your guests, a few candied pecans or chocolate curls on top always add eye-catching flair.
Side Dishes
Canadian Butter Tarts pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side add a bright pop of color and balance out the sweetness, perfect for a dazzling dessert platter at any gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn individual tarts into part of an epic dessert board, or stack them artfully on a tiered stand for your next brunch spread. For the holidays, package them in pretty boxes as edible gifts—your friends and family will adore you forever!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Canadian Butter Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay perfect for up to five days—just let them come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
Freezing
No need to worry about making too many: Canadian Butter Tarts freeze surprisingly well! Place cooled tarts in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, then separate additional layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature for a make-ahead treat anytime the craving strikes.
Reheating
If you love them a little warm, simply pop refrigerated or thawed tarts in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-8 minutes. They’ll taste just-baked fresh, with that irresistible, melty center—pure magic with your afternoon tea or coffee.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pastry shells for Canadian Butter Tarts?
Absolutely! Store-bought tart shells save time and still give you that satisfying crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough is always a lovely touch, but either option delivers delicious results.
Why is there vinegar in the filling?
The dash of white vinegar acts as a flavor balancer, keeping the sweetness from overwhelming your palate and helping the filling set with a slightly tangy richness that defines classic Canadian Butter Tarts.
Are raisins or pecans better in the filling?
It comes down to personal preference! Raisins are classic and lend a chewy, juicy burst, while pecans offer a delicate crunch. Try both, or even half-and-half for crowd-pleasing variety.
How do I keep my tarts from overflowing in the oven?
Filling your tart shells only two-thirds full is key. This prevents the luscious filling from bubbling over and gives you the ideally balanced bite in every tart.
Can I make Canadian Butter Tarts ahead of time?
Definitely! These are perfect for making in advance since the flavor deepens after resting. Store as directed, and you’ll always have a show-stopping treat ready for dessert emergencies.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never baked Canadian Butter Tarts before, now’s the perfect time to discover why they’re such a beloved classic. Grab your tart shells and simple pantry staples, and treat yourself—these sweet, golden bites are pure joy in pastry form, and you deserve every one!
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Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 tarts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet, gooey goodness of Canadian Butter Tarts with this classic recipe. These delectable treats feature a buttery pastry shell filled with a rich, sweet mixture of butter, brown sugar, and eggs, creating a satisfying dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Tart Shells:
- 1 batch unbaked 3-inch tart shells (about 12)
Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the tart shells on a baking sheet.
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar, then add eggs one at a time. Stir in cream, vinegar, vanilla, and salt until combined.
- Prepare the tarts: Divide raisins or pecans among the tart shells. Pour the filling into each shell, filling about two-thirds full.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes for runny centers or 17-20 minutes for firmer centers, until golden brown with a slightly jiggly filling.
- Cool and serve: Let the tarts cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Butter tarts can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
