Baking

Apple Walnut Canadian Butter Tarts

Name: Apple Walnut Canadian Butter Tarts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 tarts
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: cooking spray; flour for dusting; 1 pound prepared pie crust; 2 cups apple juice; ¾ cup packed brown sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon whipping cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 pinch salt; ½ cup chopped walnuts

These classic Canadian butter tarts are elevated with the sweet tang of apple juice and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. A delightful treat that captures the essence of home baking.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray and dust with flour.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the prepared pie crust. Using a 3-inch round cutter or a knife, cut out 12 circles. Gently press each circle into the prepared muffin tin cups.
In a medium saucepan, combine the apple juice and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has reduced to about ¾ cup, about 15-20 minutes. This will create a concentrated apple syrup.
Remove the apple syrup from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until melted and combined.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the large egg, whipping cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Slowly whisk the egg mixture into the warm apple-butter mixture until fully incorporated.
Divide the chopped walnuts evenly among the pie crust-lined muffin cups. Pour the apple-butter filling over the walnuts, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Let the tarts cool in the muffin tin on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Canadian butter tarts are a beloved dessert, cherished for their rich, gooey filling and crisp pastry. This rendition introduces a lovely depth of flavor with apple juice and adds texture with chopped walnuts, making each bite an exquisite experience. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a special occasion, these tarts are sure to impress with their homemade charm and delicious taste.