Nothing says Canada quite like the classic butter tart! With its flaky pastry and gooey maple filling, this dessert has stood the test of time as a beloved national treasure. The rich flavor of maple syrup is the star, perfectly complementing the buttery texture. Whether enjoyed during the holidays, at a gathering, or simply as a comforting treat on a cold day, butter tarts never fail to delight.
This simple recipe brings the authentic flavors of Canada straight to your kitchen. The secret? A dash of love and a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding pecans or chocolate chips for a fun twist!
Discover the joy of baking these buttery delights and share them with friends and family. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why butter tarts hold a special place in Canadian hearts. 🍁
Why Maple Butter Tarts Are Special
The charm of the maple butter tart lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are basic but incredibly flavorful, making it a favorite across generations of Canadians. The tart is traditionally made with maple syrup, which is a symbol of Canadian pride. Whether you’re enjoying them at a family gathering, a holiday meal, or as a sweet treat to start your day, these tarts never fail to bring comfort and joy.
Maple Butter Tart Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 4–6 tablespoons cold water
- For the Filling:
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it into a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and salt until smooth.
- If you’re using pecans or walnuts, add them to the mixture for a delightful crunch.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles and fit them into a muffin tin.
- Spoon the maple syrup filling into each tart shell, filling them about ¾ full.
4. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Maple Butter Tarts
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out helps it stay firm and prevents shrinking during baking.
- Use Pure Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup instead of imitation maple syrup. The rich, authentic taste will make all the difference in your tarts.
- Add Nuts: If you enjoy a bit of texture, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling adds a lovely contrast to the smooth syrup filling.
Serving and Storing Maple Butter Tarts
These tarts can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an after-dinner treat. If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month, ensuring that you have a sweet Canadian treat whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion:
Maple butter tarts are the essence of Canadian comfort food. With their gooey, sweet filling and flaky crust, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a personal treat, these tarts are an irresistible way to experience the warm, maple-infused flavors of Canada. Try this recipe today and let the maple magic work its charm in your kitchen!
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