Discover the Joy of Baking Vegan Butter Tarts Today!

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Vegan Butter Tarts – a plant-based take on a beloved Canadian classic. These delectable treats offer all the flavor and texture of traditional butter tarts, without the use of any dairy products. Perfect for those seeking a delicious, cruelty-free dessert option, Vegan Butter Tarts are a must-try for any home baker or vegan enthusiast.

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Discovering the Wonders of Vegan Butter Tarts

Butter tarts have long been a beloved staple in Canadian cuisine, known for their flaky pastry shells and gooey, caramelized fillings. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle, this classic dessert may seem off-limits. Enter Vegan Butter Tarts – a dairy-free twist that captures all the flavors and textures of the original, while catering to plant-based diets.

These delightful tarts feature a rich, buttery-tasting crust made from a blend of vegan-friendly ingredients, such as chilled vegan butter and all-purpose flour. The filling is a decadent mixture of softened vegan butter, dark brown sugar, maple syrup, and coconut milk, creating a gooey, caramelized center that rivals the original. With the addition of plump raisins and crunchy pecans, each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients for Vegan Butter Tarts

To create these mouthwatering Vegan Butter Tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• ¾ cup (180 mls) cold water
• 4 ice cubes
• 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
• ¾ teaspoon fine salt
• ¼ cup (50 grams) white or cane sugar (optional but recommended for sweetness and pastry color)
• ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon (180 grams) vegan butter, straight from the fridge

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons (80 grams) vegan butter, softened
• ½ packed cup (96 grams) dark brown sugar, or coconut sugar (plus a bit more for sprinkling)
• 4 tablespoons (32 grams) cornstarch, or arrowroot
• ¼ cup (60 mls) maple syrup (real maple syrup, not pancake syrup)
• ¾ cup (180 mls) full-fat canned coconut milk, not light
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• 1 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice
• ½ cup (72 grams) golden raisins/sultanas
• ½ cup (73 grams) pecan nuts, chopped. Or walnuts (omit for nut-free)
• 12 pecan halves (optional for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Butter Tarts

Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of delectable Vegan Butter Tarts:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment liners or lightly grease the cups.
2. Make the Pastry: In a small bowl, combine the cold water and ice cubes. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut the vegan butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes.
3. Roll and Shape the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into circles slightly larger than your muffin tin cups. Press the dough into the tin, forming tart shells.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, cornstarch, maple syrup, coconut milk, vanilla extract, salt, and vinegar until smooth. Stir in the raisins/sultanas and chopped pecans.
5. Fill the Tarts: Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared tart shells. Top each with a pecan half, if desired.
6. Bake: Bake the tarts for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely in the tin.
7. Serve: Carefully remove the tarts from the tin and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Vegan Butter Tarts

To ensure your Vegan Butter Tarts turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Vegan Butter: Opt for a high-quality vegan butter that is firm and provides a rich, buttery flavor to the pastry and filling.
• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Chill the dough before rolling and shaping to help prevent the pastry from becoming too soft and soggy in the baking process.
• Proper Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Butter Tarts

While traditional butter tarts may be indulgent, Vegan Butter Tarts offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. By using plant-based ingredients like vegan butter, coconut milk, and maple syrup, these tarts are free from dairy and can be enjoyed by those following a vegan or lactose-free diet. Additionally, the inclusion of nutrient-dense ingredients like pecans and raisins provides a boost of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Butter Tarts

What ingredients are used to make vegan butter tarts?

The key ingredients for Vegan Butter Tarts include vegan butter, all-purpose flour, coconut milk, maple syrup, brown sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a blend of raisins and pecans (or walnuts) for the filling.

How do vegan butter tarts differ from traditional butter tarts?

Vegan Butter Tarts differ from their traditional counterparts by using plant-based ingredients like vegan butter and coconut milk in place of dairy products. This makes them suitable for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet, while still capturing the rich, buttery flavor and gooey texture of the original.

Can I make vegan butter tarts gluten-free as well?

Yes, you can easily make these tarts gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour in the pastry for a gluten-free flour blend. This will create a delicious, dairy-free and gluten-free treat that caters to a variety of dietary needs.

What’s the best way to store vegan butter tarts to keep them fresh?

Leftover Vegan Butter Tarts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the tarts at room temperature or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Vegan Chili with Black Beans
• Easy Vegan Cheese Sauce
• Crispy Crunchy Chickpeas

Indulge in the Delectable Vegan Butter Tart Experience

Embrace the rich, buttery goodness of Vegan Butter Tarts – a delightful plant-based twist on a beloved Canadian classic. With a flaky pastry shell and a decadent, caramelized filling, these tarts offer an indulgent treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply seeking a delicious dessert option, Vegan Butter Tarts are sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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