Introduction
Classic Canadian Butter Tarts are a beloved dessert that can be found in households and bakeries across Canada. These delicious treats have a flaky pastry crust filled with a rich and gooey buttery filling. They are a staple of Canadian cuisine and are often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays.
Ingredients
To make these delectable butter tarts, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup corn syrup
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins or pecans (optional)
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make classic Canadian Butter Tarts:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass that is about 4 inches in diameter.
4. Gently press the dough circles into a greased muffin tin, forming small pastry shells.
5. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. If desired, place a few raisins or pecans in each pastry shell. Then, carefully pour the sugar mixture over the raisins or pecans, filling each shell about three-quarters full.
7. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the filling is set.
8. Allow the tarts to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
While classic Canadian Butter Tarts are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different variations:
– Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the filling for a Canadian twist.
– Substitute the raisins or pecans with chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
– For a savory twist, try adding crumbled bacon or grated cheese to the filling.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your butter tarts turn out perfectly:
– Make sure the butter is cold when making the pastry. This will help create a flaky crust.
– Chill the dough before rolling it out. This will make it easier to handle and prevent shrinkage during baking.
– If you prefer a firmer filling, increase the baking time by a few minutes.
– Allow the tarts to cool completely before removing them from the muffin tin. This will help them hold their shape.
Conclusion
Classic Canadian Butter Tarts are a true Canadian treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. With their flaky pastry and gooey filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a special treat, these butter tarts are a delicious way to indulge in the flavors of Canada.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze butter tarts?
A: Yes, you can freeze butter tarts. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use a pre-made pie crust for the pastry?
A: Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust if you prefer. Just make sure to roll it out to the desired thickness before cutting out the circles.
Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
A: While brown sugar is the traditional sweetener used in butter tarts, you can experiment with other types of sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the filling.
