Butter tarts hold a special place in my heart. Growing up, they were a staple at every holiday gathering and family celebration. My grandmother had this incredible way of making them – flaky crusts with gooey, sweet centers.

I remember sneaking into the kitchen to snag a tart (or two) before the dessert spread was unveiled.

Now, I’m sharing my take on this classic Canadian dessert with you, so you can bring a slice of those cherished family moments into your kitchen. Trust me, once you try these buttery mini pies, they’ll become a tradition in your home, too.

How To Make The Best Butter Tarts Recipe At Home

Butter Tarts Recipe is the ultimate Canadian dessert featuring flaky pastry shells filled with a rich, gooey mixture of butter, brown sugar, and eggs. Whether you love them with raisins or pecans, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Canadian
Course: Dessert

Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 12 butter tarts
Calories Per Serving: ~250

Ingredients

For The Crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter (cold, diced)
3–4 tbsp cold water

For The Filling:

¾ cup dark brown sugar

¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg (room temperature)

1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

½ cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare The Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add some butter which is cold then cut it into the floor using some pastry cutter or fingers until it looks like coarse crumbs.
Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together.

Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make The Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, egg, vinegar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
If using raisins or pecans, stir them into the mixture.

Step 3: Assemble The Tarts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a 4-inch-diameter cookie cutter to cut out 12 circles.
Gently press each dough circle into the muffin cups, ensuring they reach the edges.

Step 4: Fill And Bake

Spoon the filling into each pastry shell, filling about two-thirds full.
Bake on the middle oven rack for 18–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden.
Let the tarts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Video Tutorial:

Expert Tips And Troubleshooting

Tips For Success:

Cold Butter: It’s the secret to a flaky crust. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it.
Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Don’t overfill the tart shells, as the filling can bubble over and cause sogginess.
Custom Fillings: Experiment with bourbon pecans for a boozy twist or skip the raisins for purists.

How To Store And Reheat:

Store butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes to enjoy them warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these butter tarts with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect dessert experience.

FAQs

Are Butter Tarts A Canadian Thing?

Yes, butter tarts are a quintessential Canadian dessert, originating in Ontario and celebrated nationwide.

What Do Butter Tarts Taste Like?

Butter tarts have a sweet, gooey filling reminiscent of pecan pie but with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why Are Butter Tarts Famous?

Their unique combination of a flaky crust and caramelized filling makes them an iconic and beloved treat.

Why Are My Butter Tarts Soggy On The Bottom?

Sogginess often happens when the tart shells are overfilled or the dough isn’t rolled thin enough. Keep the filling level below the edges of the crust.

Why Butter Tarts Are The Perfect Treat?

There’s a reason butter tarts have been at the heart of Canadian traditions for generations. Their flaky crusts, gooey centers, and endless variations make them a dessert for all occasions. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen!

Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know in the comments how they turned out. I’d love to hear about your variations and family traditions!

Enjoy baking, and happy tarts!

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Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.