Classic Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe – Sweet and Irresistible

Name: Classic Canadian Butter Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: All-purpose flour; Unsalted butter; Brown sugar; Granulated sugar; Eggs; Vanilla extract; Pecans or raisins (optional)

Posted on March 6, 2025

Indulging in a warm Classic Canadian Butter Tart is like sinking into a cozy blanket on a chilly winter night—pure bliss! Imagine biting into a flaky pastry shell that cradles a gooey, buttery filling infused with just the right hint of vanilla. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a sweet invitation to indulge in something truly special.

I remember the first time I tried making these delightful treats; my kitchen turned into a mini bakery disaster zone. Flour flew everywhere as I attempted to roll out the dough while my cat thought it was playtime. But as those golden-brown beauties emerged from the oven, it was all worth it. Butter tarts are perfect for gatherings or simply curling up on the couch with your favorite show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making Classic Canadian Butter Tarts is easier than you think and delivers an incredible burst of flavor in every bite
Their golden color and shiny filling are sure to impress anyone at your table
You can customize them with nuts or raisins to suit your taste preferences
Perfect for holidays or any day you need a little sweetness in your life!

One memorable occasion was when I baked these for my family reunion; watching everyone’s eyes light up as they took their first bites was priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-purpose flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it makes rolling out so much easier.
Unsalted butter: Always use unsalted butter for baking; it allows you to control the saltiness of your tarts.
Brown sugar: Dark brown sugar adds depth and richness to the filling that white sugar can’t match.
Granulated sugar: A bit of granulated sugar gives sweetness while balancing out the flavors.
Eggs: Fresh eggs help in creating that delightful custard-like filling; always go for large eggs.
Vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic boost that’ll have you craving more.
Pecans or raisins (optional): Add these if you want extra texture and flavor; both options work wonderfully!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Tart Shells: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, combine flour and salt before cutting in chilled butter until crumbly.

Roll Out Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll until about 1/8 inch thick. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or glass to fit your tart tins.

Mix Your Filling: In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. The mix should look glossy and inviting!

Add Pecans or Raisins (If Desired): If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in chopped pecans or plump raisins into each tart shell before pouring in the filling.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Carefully pour the filling into each shell without overfilling them—leave some space for bubbling! Bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Cool Down Before Enjoying!: Let them cool slightly before removing from tins. Enjoy your Classic Canadian Butter Tarts warm or at room temperature!

Now that you see how simple it is to whip up these delightful treats, you’ll want to make them over and over again!

You Must Know

Classic Canadian butter tarts are a delightful mix of sweet, creamy filling and flaky pastry
Perfect for any occasion, these treats are often a hit at gatherings and family events
Just remember, the secret lies in the balance between sweetness and richness

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your pastry first, then fill with the butter tart mixture before baking. This sequence ensures a perfectly baked crust that crisps up beautifully while the filling sets.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like nuts or chocolate chips. You can also adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warm.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect butter tarts, ensure your pastry is chilled before rolling out
Bake until the filling is just set; overbaking leads to hard centers
Experiment with different types of sugar for unique flavors in your tarts!

The first time I made classic Canadian butter tarts was during a family reunion, and they vanished before my eyes! Everyone raved about them, making me feel like a baking superstar!

FAQ

What is the best type of butter for classic Canadian butter tarts?

Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness and flavor profile.

Can I use store-bought pastry for my butter tarts?

Absolutely! Store-bought pastry saves time and still yields delicious results.

How do I know when my butter tarts are done baking?

They should be golden brown around the edges with slightly jiggly centers that will set as they cool.