Canadian Butter Tarts Recipe

Canadian butter tarts are a classic Canadian dessert known for their flaky pastry crust and sweet, gooey filling. The filling is typically made from a mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, with variations that might include ingredients like raisins, pecans, or walnuts.

Here is a basic recipe for Canadian butter tarts:

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup cold shortening, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup raisins or chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together.
   • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Cut the Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness.
   • Using a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough and fit them into a muffin tin, pressing gently to form a crust. Re-roll scraps as needed.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
   • Beat in the corn syrup, egg, vanilla extract, vinegar, and salt until well combined.
4. Assemble the Tarts:
   • If using raisins or pecans, sprinkle a few into the bottom of each tart shell.
   • Pour the filling mixture into each shell, filling about 3/4 full.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown.
   • Let the tarts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Canadian butter tarts!