Maple Brown Butter Tartlets: 12 Sweet Maple Treats

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Maple Brown Butter Tartlets are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the nutty flavor of brown butter with a rich, smooth filling. These mini tarts, inspired by the classic Canadian dessert, use real maple syrup to create a sweet indulgence that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or looking for a unique holiday dessert, these tartlets are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

There are countless reasons to adore these maple butter tartlets. First, their crispy, buttery pastry shell perfectly complements the luscious filling. The use of brown butter adds a complex, nutty flavor that elevates this dessert beyond the ordinary. Additionally, the tartlets are easy to make, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. They are also customizable; you can add nuts or chocolate for extra texture. Plus, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. These brown butter tartlets are not just delicious; they are also an elegant addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients for Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

Gather these items:

FOR THE TARTLET SHELLS
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg yolk
1 to 2 tablespoons ice-cold water
FOR THE MAPLE BROWN BUTTER FILLING
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup pure maple syrup (Grade A dark recommended)
½ cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt

How to Make Maple Brown Butter Tartlets Step-by-Step

Step 1: MAKE THE TARTLET SHELLS: In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix evenly.
Step 2: CUT IN BUTTER: Add cold, cubed butter to the processor and pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs with small visible butter pieces.
Step 3: ADD EGG YOLK AND WATER: Add the egg yolk and one tablespoon of ice water. Pulse until the dough begins to come together. Add an additional tablespoon of water if needed, just until it holds together when pressed.
Step 4: CHILL DOUGH: Turn the dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Form into a ball, then flatten into a disc. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: ROLL AND SHAPE: Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut rounds to fit tartlet tins and gently press into each tin, trimming excess edges.
Step 6: CHILL SHELLS: Place shaped tartlet shells in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: PARBAKE SHELLS: Prick the bottoms of the tartlet shells with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes until just lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 8: BROWN THE BUTTER: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter foams and golden brown bits form on the bottom. Once browned and fragrant, remove from heat and pour into a bowl to cool slightly.
Step 9: MAKE THE FILLING: In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 10: ADD BROWN BUTTER: Slowly drizzle the slightly cooled brown butter into the filling mixture while whisking continuously. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
Step 11: FILL TARTLETS: Pour the filling into the pre-baked tartlet shells, filling nearly to the top but leaving a small gap to prevent overflow.
Step 12: BAKE: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the filling is puffed and just set in the center. The tops should be golden and slightly firm.
Step 13: COOL AND SERVE: Allow tartlets to cool completely in the tins before removing. Serve at room temperature.

Pro Tips for the Best Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday dessert tables.
Use Grade A dark maple syrup for best flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For added crunch, consider topping your maple custard tartlets with chopped nuts before baking.

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Best Ways to Serve Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

For an elegant touch, serve these mini maple butter tarts with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive flair, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

How to Store and Reheat Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

To store your homemade maple brown butter tartlets, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, simply pop them back in a warm oven for a few minutes until warmed through. This dessert is perfect for meal prep during busy holiday seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Brown Butter Tartlets

What is a maple brown butter tartlet?

A maple brown butter tartlet is a mini pastry filled with a rich mixture of brown butter, maple syrup, and eggs, creating a sweet and nutty dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Maple Brown Butter Tartlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tartlet shells and filling ahead of time. Assemble and bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Maple Brown Butter Tartlets?

To avoid common issues, ensure your butter is browned properly and don’t overfill the tartlet shells. Keeping an eye on the baking time is key to achieving perfectly set filling.

Variations of Maple Brown Butter Tartlets You Can Try

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent treat. You can also substitute pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. Another option is to incorporate spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm, autumnal flavor. These variations ensure that your maple brown butter desserts are unique and delightfully diverse.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie Baked Oats or Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta. If you’re interested in learning about the benefits of maple syrup, visit Healthline for more information.