Classic Canadian Butter Tarts with a Gooey Filling

A timeless Canadian treat featuring flaky pastry and a rich, gooey filling. These butter tarts are perfect for dessert or an indulgent snack!

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

1½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1 large egg yolk

2–3 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup corn syrup

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

1 cup pecans or raisins (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.

2. Prepare the Pastry:

In a bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar.

Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Mix in the egg yolk and add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a dough forms.

3. Shape the Pastry Shells:

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface.

Cut into circles large enough to fit the muffin tin. Press the dough circles into the muffin cups.

4. Make the Filling:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Stir in pecans or raisins if desired.

5. Assemble and Bake:

Spoon the filling into the prepared pastry shells, filling each about ¾ full.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve:

Allow the tarts to cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy these delicious and classic Canadian butter tarts with their flaky pastry and gooey filling! Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a sweet treat anytime.