Prize Mini Butter Tarts

Name: Prize Mini Butter Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 24 tarts
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed); 1/4 cup ice water (plus more if needed); 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 tablespoon corn syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg (lightly beaten); 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)

65 min 24 tarts Medium

All Recipes

Decadent and bite-sized, these prize mini butter tarts are a classic Canadian treat perfect for any occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Butter tarts are a quintessential Canadian dessert, beloved for their flaky pastry and rich, gooey filling. These prize mini butter tarts offer a delightful twist by being perfectly bite-sized, making them ideal for parties or as a quick snack. This recipe ensures you achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, a hallmark of this classic treat. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding. The mini size makes them fun to make and even more fun to eat. Plus, they're a great conversation starter, as everyone will be curious about your secret to their perfect taste and texture.

Instructions

Prepare the pastry

In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough forms.

Pro tip: Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to avoid warming the butter.

Chill the dough

Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Chilling helps relax the gluten and makes it easier to roll out.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a mini muffin tin with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Roll out the dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 6 cm (2.5 inch) circles and fit into prepared muffin tin.

Pro tip: Use a cookie cutter for even circles.

Make the filling

In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and egg until smooth. Stir in raisins or nuts if using.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is cooled slightly before mixing to avoid cooking the egg.

Fill and bake

Spoon filling into each pastry shell, filling about 2/3 full. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until filling is set and pastry is golden.

Pro tip: The filling should be bubbly and slightly risen when done.

Cool and serve

Let the tarts cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling allows the filling to firm up.

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Tips & Tricks

Chill your dough to make it easier to handle and shape.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease in removal.
Try adding nuts or raisins for a twist on tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these mini butter tarts 'prize' worthy?

Their perfectly balanced sweet filling and flaky crust are what make these mini butter tarts prize-worthy.

How many calories are in a mini butter tart?

Each mini butter tart contains approximately 125 calories.

Can I freeze butter tarts?

Yes, butter tarts can be frozen. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

How long do butter tarts last?

Butter tarts last up to 3 days in an airtight container or longer if frozen.

Can I use pre-made pastry for butter tarts?

Yes, pre-made pastry can be used for convenience, though homemade offers a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these mini butter tarts slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavour. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal addition to brunches or afternoon gatherings. These tarts can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them and thawing before serving. They maintain their deliciousness and flaky texture even after being frozen.

Nutrition per serving

125

Calories

Protein

Fat

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