Buttercups (Tarts)
Buttercups (Tarts) are sweet cherry-filled treats with a rich almond flavor, perfect for dessert or special occasions, combining fruity tartness with buttery richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quarter the drained cherries.
- Add butter, light corn syrup, sugar, salt, and beaten eggs to the top of a double boiler and cook.
- Add enough cornstarch to the mixture to thicken it.
- Stir in the quartered cherries and almond extract before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother consistency, ensure the butter is melted before adding to the double boiler. If you want a thicker filling, adjust the cornstarch gradually, as too much can alter the flavor. Consider using fresh cherries when in season for a vibrant taste, or substitute with frozen cherries if necessary. For a nutty flavor, almond extract can be swapped with vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Buttercups warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more decadent experience, consider serving alongside Easy Chocolate Truffle for an indulgent dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Buttercups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they are warm but not overcooked. This method keeps the crust crisp while warming the filling nicely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttercups (Tarts) contains roughly 302 calories, with 2g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 560mg per serving (24% 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 different fruits instead of cherries?
Absolutely! While cherries give a unique flavor, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. Just ensure the fruit is well-drained if using canned or frozen varieties to prevent a soggy tart.
How can I make these tarts gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Buttercups, substitute regular flour in the tart crust with a gluten-free blend. You can also check for gluten-free corn syrup and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling is runny, you can return it to the heat and gradually add more cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it up. Stir continuously until the desired consistency is achieved. Allow the mixture to cool before filling the tarts.
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).