This instructable covers how to make delicious and adorable bite-sized butter tarts using Canadian maple syrup.

 

These easy treats are perfect to share all year round; from BBQs in late summer to Thanksgiving in October, served warm to beat the chill in winter or packed tight to bring hiking or to a picnic in the spring.

 

While small, decadent mouthfuls of dessert might seem like a guilty pleasure, just one or two can pack a much-needed energy boost between meals when you're working (or playing) hard - especially if you add nuts or raisins ... All you have to do is limit yourself and you could almost call them healthy - "betcha can't eat just one."

You will need:

 

2-4 12-count miniature muffin trays
48 miniature pie shells - click here for a Simple Pie Crust instructable
https://www.instructables.com/id/Simple-Pie-Crust/
whisk & large bowl
oven pre-heated to 375°F

&

1/2 cup Canadian maple syrup
1/2 cup brown or golden sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter or vegetable shortening
1 large egg
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/8 tsp sea salt

 

Cream together 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup butter.

Add 2 tsp vanilla, 1/8 tsp salt, 1 beaten egg and 1/2 cup maple syrup.

Mix, whip or blend until smooth.

Add raisins or pecan pieces to your tart shells first, then pour the maple filling in. Don't go much over half full as they will bubble over. 

Bake at 375°F on middle rack for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden. Let cool 5-10 minutes and serve while still warm with coffee or hot cocoa.

Yield 48 miniature butter tarts.