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Classic Canadian Butter Tarts

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  • Author: Mari
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 tarts 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Canadian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich, gooey, and buttery tart with a flaky crust, filled with a caramelized brown sugar filling that melts in your mouth. A beloved Canadian dessert perfect for holidays, gatherings, or an indulgent treat anytime!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Pastry:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 34 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or corn syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Pastry:

    • In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
    • Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.
    • Form into a disk, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Tarts:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Roll out the chilled dough and cut into 12 rounds.
    • Press into a muffin tin to form tart shells.
  3. Make the Filling:

    • In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
    • Stir in raisins or pecans if using.
  4. Fill and Bake:

    • Spoon the filling into the tart shells, filling each about ¾ full.
    • Bake for 18-20 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden.
  5. Cool and Serve:

    • Let the tarts cool for 10 minutes before removing from the tin.
    • Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a runny filling, bake for a shorter time (around 15-17 minutes).
  • For a firmer filling, bake a few extra minutes until set.
  • Substitute maple syrup for a true Canadian flavor.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.