Maple Butter Tarts

A Classic Canadian Dessert

Maple Butter Tarts are a beloved traditional Canadian dessert, known for their rich, gooey filling and buttery, flaky crust. The origins of butter tarts can be traced back to the early French settlers in Canada, who sought a sweet and satisfying treat that could warm up the chilly northern climate. Over the years, these delightful tarts have evolved, and each family often has its own variation. The addition of maple syrup adds a uniquely Canadian twist to this classic confection.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: 1 and 1/4 cups
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: a pinch
• Cold water: 2 to 4 tablespoons
• Brown sugar: 1 cup
• Eggs: 2 large
• Maple syrup: 1/4 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Raisins: 1/2 cup
• Optional: Pecans or walnuts, chopped, 1/2 cup

Preparation Steps

For the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork until the dough holds together when pressed.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Stir in the raisins and optional pecans or walnuts. Set aside.

Assembly and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Using a round cookie cutter, cut circles in the dough and fit them into a muffin tin, pressing gently to form a cup shape.
4. Fill each crust with the prepared filling, about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Timer

Don't forget to set your cooking timer to ensure your Maple Butter Tarts come out perfectly gooey and delicious!

Enjoying Your Maple Butter Tarts

Maple Butter Tarts are versatile desserts that can be enjoyed warm out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold from the refrigerator as a sweet treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply as a delightful afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. However you choose to enjoy them, these tarts are sure to impress with their deeply satisfying flavors and irresistible texture.