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Butter Tarts

Butter Tarts Recipe

Butter Tarts are a classic Canadian treat that perfectly balance sweetness and a flaky crust. With a rich caramel-like filling, these little tarts are a delightful indulgence. The buttery goodness combined with the right kick of sweetness makes them a favorite at gatherings and a cherished family dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/3 cup raisins (optional)
  • 12 unbaked tart shells

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tart shells on a baking sheet to prepare for filling.
  2. Mix Sugar and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and softened butter until you achieve a smooth consistency.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the corn syrup, then whisk the egg into the mixture until everything is well blended.
  4. Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and white vinegar to complete your filling.
  5. Prep the Tart Shells: If you’re using raisins, place a few at the bottom of each tart shell.
  6. Fill the Shells: Carefully pour the filling into each tart shell, ensuring you only fill them about two-thirds full to avoid overflow when baking.
  7. Bake: Place your baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Look for bubbly filling and golden brown crusts as your doneness cues.
  8. Cool Down: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tarts cool in the pan. This will allow the filling to set properly before serving.

Notes

  • Avoid Overfilling: Filling the tart shells too full can lead to messy overflow in the oven. Stick to two-thirds full to achieve the best results.
  • Adjust Baking Time: If your filling isn’t bubbling or the crust isn’t golden, leave the tarts in the oven for a few additional minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
  • Special Note on Raisins: If you find that raisins aren’t to your taste, simply omit them for a smoother filling.