Classic Butter Tarts

Classic Butter Tarts are one of Canada’s most beloved desserts, known for their rich, sweet, and slightly gooey filling encased in a flaky pastry shell. These little tarts are the perfect balance of buttery, caramel-like filling with a delicate, crisp crust.

I love this recipe because it brings nostalgic flavors to life, and each bite feels indulgent yet comforting. Perfect for tea time, holidays, or special occasions, butter tarts are a timeless treat that impresses guests and satisfies any sweet tooth. They are simple enough to make at home, yet elegant in presentation.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love butter tarts for their perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, buttery pastry contrasts beautifully with the rich, sweet filling made from brown sugar, butter, and eggs. Every bite melts in your mouth with a subtle hint of vanilla and the occasional chew of raisins or nuts if added.

They are versatile, customizable, and evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making them a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, or just a special treat for yourself.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Butter tarts are a must-try because they’re iconic, delicious, and fun to make. Their gooey, caramel-like filling and delicate crust are a perfect match for coffee, tea, or dessert plates. Unlike many desserts, they are individually portioned, making them easy to serve at parties or as gifts.

Once you try this classic version, you’ll understand why butter tarts have remained a staple in Canadian baking for generations.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 tarts
• Calories: Approx. 250 kcal per tart
• Cuisine: Canadian
• Course: Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

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

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare pastry: Combine flour and salt, cut in butter until crumbly, add water to form dough. Chill 30 minutes.
3. Roll dough and line 12 muffin cups or tart pans.
4. Mix filling ingredients in a bowl, stir in raisins or nuts if desired.
5. Pour filling into pastry shells, about 2/3 full.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes until filling is set but slightly jiggly in center.
7. Cool before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Prepare Pastry Dough: In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold cubed butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add water gradually until dough holds together. Chill in fridge for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Roll Dough and Line Cups: Roll chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles slightly larger than muffin tins or tart pans. Press into cups evenly.
4. Make Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and corn syrup until smooth. Stir in optional raisins or nuts.
5. Fill Tarts: Pour filling into prepared pastry shells, filling about two-thirds full.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the pastry is golden and the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool at room temperature before removing from tins. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve butter tarts on a dessert plate or tray.

• Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Dust with powdered sugar for extra presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Chill the dough before rolling to prevent shrinking.
• Avoid overfilling tart shells to prevent spills.
• Check the center; it should jiggle slightly for the perfect gooey texture.
• Use fresh butter and brown sugar for the best flavor.

Variations for This Recipe

• Classic Raisin: Add 1/2 cup raisins to the filling.
• Pecan Butter Tarts: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
• Chocolate Chip: Stir in mini chocolate chips.
• Maple Syrup: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for extra flavor.
• Boozy: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the filling for adults.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked, cooled tarts in a single layer in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Muffin tin or tart pans
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the pastry.

Q2: Can I make the tarts ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare and fill the shells ahead and bake just before serving.

Q3: Can I skip the raisins or nuts?
A: Absolutely! Classic butter tarts are delicious plain.

Q4: Can I make mini butter tarts?
A: Yes, use mini muffin tins and adjust baking time to 15–18 minutes.

Q5: Why is my filling runny?
A: Ensure you measure eggs and sugar accurately and bake until slightly set; residual heat will finish cooking.

Conclusion

Classic Butter Tarts are a quintessential Canadian dessert, offering a perfect balance of flaky pastry and sweet, gooey filling. They are simple to make, versatile, and perfect for every occasion—from casual tea time to holiday gatherings.

With endless variations, these tarts can cater to different tastes while retaining their classic charm. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why butter tarts have remained a timeless favorite for generations. Indulge in these treats and enjoy a slice of Canadian baking tradition.