Butter Tarts: 7 Irresistible Ways to Indulge Today

Name: Butter Tarts: 7 Irresistible Ways to Indulge Today
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons ice water; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup raisins or pecans (optional)

27 listopada, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let’s talk about butter tarts! These little gems are a beloved classic in Canada, and once you taste one, you’ll understand why. Imagine a flaky, buttery pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture that’s just the right amount of indulgent. Seriously, they’re like a warm hug in dessert form! Butter tarts are not just a treat; they’re a nostalgic journey that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons. Whether you like them with raisins or pecans, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Ingredients for Butter Tarts

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons ice water
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup corn syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins or pecans (optional for extra flavor and texture)

How to Prepare Butter Tarts

Making butter tarts is a delightful adventure, and I promise it’s easier than you might think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of sweet, gooey goodness in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for that perfect golden crust!
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Give it a quick stir so everything is mixed well.
Now, it’s time to cut in the chilled butter. I like to use a pastry cutter or two forks for this. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs—don’t worry if some butter pieces are a bit larger; that’s perfectly fine!
Next, add the ice water a little at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. You don’t want to overmix here, so stop as soon as it forms a ball.
Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Then, use a round cutter to cut out circles and gently press them into a muffin tin. Make sure to press them down firmly to create a nice little shell!
Now onto the filling! In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This is where the magic begins!
Carefully pour that luscious filling into each tart shell, filling them about 3/4 full. If you’re adding raisins or pecans, sprinkle them in now!
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set, and the tops are beautifully bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary!
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This will make them easier to remove without falling apart. Trust me, patience pays off here!
Finally, transfer the tarts to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. I know it’s hard to wait, but the gooey filling needs a moment to set!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make—perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings!
Classic Canadian flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Sweet, gooey filling that’s simply irresistible—seriously, you won’t be able to stop at one!
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like raisins, pecans, or even chocolate for a fun twist.
Impressive enough for gatherings, yet simple enough for a cozy night in.
A delightful combination of flaky crust and rich filling—pure dessert bliss!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your butter tarts turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my go-to tips that’ll help you avoid any pitfalls and ensure that every bite is a slice of heaven.

Chill Your Butter: Make sure your butter is well-chilled before cutting it into the flour. This helps create that flaky texture we all crave!
Don’t Overmix: When you’re mixing the dough, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough crusts, and we want them tender and flaky.
Check the Oven Temperature: Ovens can be sneaky! If you have an oven thermometer, use it to ensure it’s at the right temperature. A too-hot oven can overbake the tarts, while a too-cool one can leave them undercooked.
Fill Wisely: When pouring in the filling, aim for 3/4 full to allow room for bubbling. If you overfill, you might end up with filling spilling over—yikes!
Let Them Cool: Patience is key! Let the tarts cool in the muffin tin for about 10 minutes to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them hold their shape beautifully!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast or try different nuts and dried fruits for unique flavors.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on those tarts as they bake. You want the filling to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out. They’ll firm up as they cool!

Variations of Butter Tarts

Now, let’s talk about the fun part—variations! Butter tarts are like a blank canvas, just waiting for your creative touch. While the classic sweet, gooey filling is irresistible, you can totally switch things up to keep things exciting. Here are some delicious ideas to inspire your next baking adventure:

Chocolate Lovers: For a rich twist, melt some chocolate and mix it into the filling. You can even sprinkle chocolate chips right on top before baking for an extra indulgent treat!
Coconut Bliss: Stir in some shredded coconut for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a lovely chewiness that pairs perfectly with the sweet filling.
Maple Syrup: Swap out the corn syrup for pure maple syrup to give your tarts a delightful maple flavor. It’s a delicious twist that feels oh-so-Canadian!
Nutty Goodness: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. They add a wonderful crunch and elevate the flavor profile.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor. Perfect for cozy fall evenings!
Fruit Swirl: Drop in some fresh or dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or even peaches for a fruity burst. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose.
Vegan Version: Use a vegan butter alternative and substitute flax eggs for a plant-based version. Coconut cream can replace the corn syrup to keep that gooey texture!

So go ahead, let your imagination run wild! Each variation brings its own unique charm, and you might just discover a new favorite in the process. Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made a delicious batch of butter tarts, you might be wondering how to store them and keep that gooey goodness intact. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

First off, let the tarts cool completely before storing them. This prevents any moisture from building up in the container, which can make the crust soggy—yikes! Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature, but if you want to keep them longer, popping them in the fridge will extend their life to about a week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before diving in!

If you want to store them for even longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy one (or two!), just take them out and let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. No need to reheat; they’re delightful chilled or at room temp, but if you crave that warm, melty filling, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to warm them up. Wow, the smell of baking butter tarts will fill your kitchen and tempt your taste buds all over again!

So there you have it! Simple tips to keep your butter tarts delicious and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Happy snacking!

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a quick peek at the nutritional breakdown of these delightful butter tarts. Keep in mind that this is an estimate per serving (that’s one tart!), so the numbers may vary a bit depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 180
Sugar: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 50mg

So, while these sweet treats are a bit indulgent, they’re also a delightful way to enjoy a classic Canadian dessert. Balance is key, so enjoy your butter tarts as part of a varied diet, and you’ll be just fine! Happy indulging!

FAQ About Butter Tarts

I know you might have some burning questions about these delicious butter tarts, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones together!

Can I use a store-bought pastry crust instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or just prefer the convenience, a store-bought pastry crust will work just fine. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking time and temperature. It’s a great way to save a little effort while still enjoying these classic treats!

What’s the best way to know if my butter tarts are done baking?

Great question! You’ll want to check that the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out of the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look a little wobbly right away. Just make sure the tops are bubbly and golden!

Can I make butter tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Butter tarts are perfect for making ahead. Just bake them, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container. They’ll last for about a week in the fridge, or you can freeze them for up to two months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before serving!

What’s the difference between butter tarts with and without raisins or pecans?

Oh, that’s a fun topic! Butter tarts without any add-ins have that pure, sweet gooey filling that’s simply divine. When you add raisins or pecans, you introduce different textures and flavors. The raisins provide a nice chewiness, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. It really just depends on your personal preference!

Are butter tarts gluten-free?

Classic butter tarts are not gluten-free because they’re made with all-purpose flour. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure your other ingredients, like the corn syrup and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free. Enjoying these sweet treats is totally possible for everyone!

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O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.