Butter Tarts
Butter tarts are a classic Canadian dessert consisting of a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, often studded with raisins or pecans. They are a staple of Canadian home baking and are particularly associated with Ontario. The filling bakes into a semi-liquid, caramel-like center that sets as it cools.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This is a high-fat and high-carb treat, providing a quick energy boost primarily from sugars and fats. A single tart typically contains around 250-350 calories, with minimal protein or significant vitamins.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 38 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Potassium | 90 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin E | 1.2 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.1 mg |
| Phosphorus | 50 mg |
| Magnesium | 10 mg |
Per 1 tart (approx. 80 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The texture of the filling is a point of national pride and debate, with fierce loyalty to either a runny, gooey center or a firmer, more set one. Nutritionally, it's a dense source of quick energy, reflecting its origins as a hearty, satisfying treat for cold climates.
