Butter Tarts
Rich, buttery tart shells filled with sweet caramel-like filling, accented with currants or raisins—perfect for dessert gatherings or a delightful treat with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt.
- Stir in the beaten eggs and currants or raisins.
- Fill tart shells almost full with the mixture.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cool on a rack before removing from pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the filling. If you don't have currants, raisins work just as well, or you can substitute with chopped nuts for a different texture. Ensure your tart shells are well-chilled before filling for a crispier crust, similar to the texture found in Yummy Cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve butter tarts warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a hearty meal. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Holiday Thumbprint Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover butter tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delicious gooey filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Tarts contains roughly 449 calories, with 3g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1821mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, while brown sugar is traditional for butter tarts due to its rich flavor, you can substitute with white granulated sugar or even coconut sugar. However, keep in mind that using white sugar will result in a slightly different taste and texture.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too runny, it might be due to undercooked eggs or too much corn syrup. To thicken the filling, you can try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to achieve the desired consistency before filling your tart shells.
Is it possible to make these tarts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can also bake the tarts ahead of time and freeze them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and reheat before serving for the best taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).