Butter Tarts: The Irresistible Canadian Dessert You Need to Try

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a warm butter tart—the buttery, flaky crust giving way to a sweet, gooey center that melts on your tongue. Whether you grew up enjoying these treats at family gatherings or are discovering them for the first time, one thing’s certain: butter tarts are a Canadian classic that deserve a spot in your baking repertoire.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making perfect butter tarts, from the essential ingredients to expert tips for achieving that ideal balance of crispy crust and luscious filling. We’ll also explore variations, answer common questions, and share serving suggestions to make your butter tart experience unforgettable.

Classic Butter Tart Ingredients

To make authentic Canadian butter tarts, you’ll need two main components: the filling and the pastry shells.

Filling Ingredients

Pastry Shells

• 12 unbaked tart shells – Homemade or store-bought for convenience.

Step-by-Step Butter Tart Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect butter tarts every time.

1. Preheat & Prep

• Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place tart shells on a baking sheet (prevents spills).

2. Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. If using, sprinkle raisins or pecans into the tart shells.

3. Fill & Bake

• Pour the filling into shells until ⅔ full (they expand while baking!).
• Bake for 15–18 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden.

4. Cool & Enjoy

• Let them cool for 10 minutes—this helps the filling set slightly.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tip: For gooey butter tarts, bake for 15 minutes. For firmer ones, leave them in for 18–20 minutes.

If you liked the ingredients of the Butter Tarts, come in and try preparing the Classic Canadian Date Squares

Classic Canadian Date Squares: A Nostalgic, Buttery Treat You’ll Love

More Canadian Heritage Recipes to Explore:

Bannock : Golden Canadian Recipe

Old Acadian-Style Tourtière (Meat Pie)

Tourtière : (French Canadian Meat Pie) Recipe

Delicious Butter Tart Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these tasty twists:

Maple Butter Tarts

• Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a richer, more Canadian flavor.

Chocolate Chip Butter Tarts

• Add ½ cup dark chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist.

Pecan Butter Tarts

• Swap raisins for toasted pecans for a nutty crunch.

Gluten-Free Butter Tarts

• Use gluten-free tart shells for a celiac-friendly version.

Serving & Storing Butter Tarts

Best Ways to Serve

• Warm with vanilla ice cream – The contrast of hot and cold is heavenly.
• Drizzled with caramel – For extra indulgence.
• With coffee or tea – The perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

What Are Butter Tarts?

Butter tarts are a beloved Canadian dessert consisting of a buttery pastry shell filled with a rich, sugary mixture of brown sugar, butter, eggs, and often raisins or pecans. Their origins trace back to early Canadian settlers, with some historians linking them to Quebec’s tarte au sucre (sugar pie).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Simple ingredients – Pantry staples you likely already have.
✔ Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate, or keep them classic.
✔ Quick to make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Crowd-pleasing – Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet afternoon snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why did my butter tarts turn out runny?

• Underbaking or overfilling can cause this. Bake until the filling is just set, and avoid filling shells more than ⅔ full.

2. Can I make butter tarts without corn syrup?

• Yes! Substitute maple syrup, honey, or golden syrup for a different flavor profile.

3. Are butter tarts similar to pecan pie?

• They share similarities, but butter tarts are smaller, richer, and often contain raisins.

4. Can I use pre-made tart shells?

• Absolutely! Store-bought shells save time and still taste great.

Butter tarts are more than just a dessert—they’re a bite of Canadian tradition. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with fun variations, one thing’s for sure: these sweet, buttery treats will disappear fast.

Ready to bake? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best butter tarts you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be begging for the recipe!

Craving more Canadian classics? Check out our recipes for Nanaimo bars and poutine next!