If there's one baked good that's truly, unapologetically Canadian, it's the butter tart. Flaky pastry, gooey filling, and that perfect balance of sweet and buttery — it's no wonder Canadians are fiercely loyal to their favourite version. At 23sweets, butter tarts hold a special place in our hearts (and our kitchen). Here's everything you need to know about this beloved treat.

What Is a Butter Tart?

A butter tart is a small pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, syrup, and egg — baked until the filling is set on the outside but still slightly runny in the centre. The result is a rich, caramel-like filling with a flaky, tender crust. Simple ingredients, extraordinary results.

The Great Debate: Runny vs. Firm

Ask any Canadian about butter tarts and you'll quickly discover there are two camps: runny filling and firm filling. Runny lovers want that gooey, almost liquid centre that oozes when you bite in. Firm fans prefer a set filling that holds its shape. Both are delicious — it really comes down to personal preference (and family tradition).

Raisins: Yes or No?

This might be the most divisive question in Canadian baking. Traditional butter tarts often include raisins, which plump up beautifully in the filling. But the raisin-free camp is equally passionate. Some bakers add walnuts or pecans instead for a nutty crunch. At 23sweets, we make both — so everyone's happy.

What Makes a Great Butter Tart?

The best butter tarts come down to a few key factors:

• Pastry: It should be flaky and tender, not tough or soggy. The crust needs to hold the filling without becoming a puddle.
• Filling: Real butter, good quality syrup, and the right ratio of sugar to egg make all the difference. No shortcuts.
• Bake time: Pull them too early and the filling won't set; too late and you lose that signature gooeyness. It's a narrow window — and we've perfected it.

Order Fresh Butter Tarts from 23sweets

Life's too short for mediocre butter tarts. Our Butter Tarts are made fresh with real butter and a perfectly flaky pastry shell — the way they're meant to be. Whether you're a runny-filling devotee or a firm-filling loyalist, we've got your tart.

They make a wonderful gift, a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering, or an excellent personal treat (again, no judgment). Contact us to place an order or check out our full Pies & Tarts collection for more sweet options.

Butter Tart Fun Facts

• The earliest known butter tart recipe in Canada dates back to 1900.
• Ontario is considered the butter tart capital of Canada, with entire festivals dedicated to the treat.
• The butter tart has been called "Canada's most iconic dessert" by food historians.
• There's an actual Butter Tart Trail in Ontario — a road trip route through bakeries famous for their tarts.

Whether you're a lifelong butter tart fan or trying them for the first time, we think you'll agree: this little tart is a big deal. Order yours from 23sweets today.