Heart-Shaped Classic Canadian Butter Tarts with a Gooey Filling

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Heart-Shaped Classic Canadian Butter Tarts with a Gooey Filling

Introduction

Butter tarts are a quintessential Canadian dessert, loved for their flaky crust and sweet, gooey filling. Originating in Ontario during the early 1900s, butter tarts have become a symbol of Canadian culinary pride. This heart-shaped version adds a touch of romance, making them perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. Their rich, buttery flavor and satisfying texture create a dessert that’s both indulgent and nostalgic.

Ingredients

For the pastry:

2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 tsp salt

1 tbsp granulated sugar

6-8 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar

½ cup (120ml) corn syrup or maple syrup

2 large eggs

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup (75g) raisins (optional)

½ cup (50g) chopped pecans (optional)

Methods and Formation

Step 1: Prepare the pastry

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Add cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just holds together.
  4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Roll and shape the dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
  3. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
  4. Gently press each heart into a muffin tin to form a tart shell, trimming excess edges. Chill for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the filling

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. If using raisins or pecans, distribute them evenly among the tart shells.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

  1. Pour the filling into each tart shell, filling about ¾ full.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges of the crust are golden and the filling is bubbly.
  3. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

History of Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are deeply rooted in Canadian culinary history, believed to have originated from French Canadian settlers. Recipes from the 1900s, such as the one published in the 1915 Women’s Auxiliary of the Royal Victoria Hospital cookbook, showcase the timeless love for this dessert. Variations have since emerged, but the classic filling remains iconic.

Benefits of Butter Tarts

  1. Emotional comfort: The sweet, gooey filling provides a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
  2. Energy boost: High in sugar and fats, butter tarts provide quick energy, ideal for a pick-me-up.
  3. Celebration-ready: These heart-shaped tarts are perfect for sharing love and joy during special occasions.

Nutrition Information (per tart)

Calories: ~260

Protein: 2g

Carbohydrates: 32g

Fat: 14g

Sugar: 20g

Fiber: 1g

Lovers of Butter Tarts

Butter tarts have an almost cult-like following, with loyal fans across Canada and beyond. They are adored by dessert enthusiasts, food historians, and those seeking to celebrate Canadian culture. The heart-shaped variation adds a layer of affection, attracting couples and families alike.

Conclusion

Heart-shaped butter tarts bring together the traditional charm of Canadian butter tarts with a romantic twist. Their rich filling, flaky crust, and nostalgic flavor make them a dessert worth savoring and sharing. Whether for a cozy family gathering or a romantic date night, these tarts are a heartfelt expression of love and tradition.

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