It’s the all-Canadian treat: The butter tart, a single serving pastry consisting of a delicate crust filled with ooey-gooey goodness, either plain or packed with raisins, pecans, walnuts - even, these days, bacon or hot peppers.
The Canadian Encyclopedia says the first published recipe for butter tarts was printed in 1900, in the Women’s Auxiliary of the Royal Victoria Hospital Cookbook, but suggests that butter tarts were a staple in Quebec and Ontario long before then.
Since it was ‘invented,’ the butter tart has spread across the country, considered one of the few truly Canadian culinary items that is universal in its appeal.
The Bradford Farmers’ Market will be holding its annual Butter Tart Festival this Saturday, Sept. 14, outside the Bradford Public Library, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sweet Annabella's, The Polish Baker, Everything Maple & More, Lakeview Gardens, Springh Farms and other vendors will have butter tarts for sale, in addition to the usual fresh produce and local products. Come early for the best selection of everything from Maple Bacon butter tarts, to the classics.
Musical entertainment will be provided by Russ Clayton, in a tribute to Elvis.
The outdoor market takes place every Saturday, rain or shine, in the east parking lot at the library. The final outdoor market will be held on Thanksgiving weekend, in October - then vendors will move indoors. Watch for details.
