Canada is known for its cold weather and its luxuriant nature, but it doesn’t particularly shine on the international food scene. Yet, the country has a few edible gems that are worth a try, and believe me, it goes beyond poutine and maple syrup! Let’s start our culinary journey by exploring Canadian sweets. I’ll share with you my must-try treats and, of course, I’ll let you know the best spots to sample them in Vancouver.
1. Date Squares
Date Square from Greens Market ($2.50)
Date squares are probably my favorite Canadian treat. Usually, the chewy date paste is placed between two buttery pieces of oatmeal shortbread. Jitters Caffe on 4th avenue in Kitsilano has a really good date square that I recommend trying. Sam (the owner) will tell you that the recipe is simple: ‘just dates and oats’. This sugarless recipe is not exactly traditional, but this guilt-free pleasure is a delight for every sweet lover! If you want something a little more authentic, Greens Market occasionally has some.
2. Butter Tarts
Pecan Butter Tart from the Pie Hole ($3.50)
Butter tarts have won my Norman heart. The Pie Hole has an extremely satisfying Pecan Butter Tart. The gooey filling tastes just like salted caramel, and the flaky outside layer is as buttery as it should be. The Pie Hole goes the extra mile by adding some pecans on top of their tarts, and it works remarkably well! This rich pastry is definitely on the heavy side, yet it won’t leave you uncomfortably stuffed after you devour it!
3. Beavertails
Bananarama from BeaverTail ($8.25)
Beavertails are classic Canadian pastries that were invented in Ontario in 1978. Nowadays, you can find them across Canada. The hand-stretched whole-wheat bread is shaped like a beaver tail, hence the name. It is served warm and you can choose the toppings that you like. The classic combo is sugar and cinnamon, but they have a lot more flavors such as chocolate hazelnut spread, cheesecake, crushed oreos, etc. If you are a chocolate lover, I recommend the Bananarama!
4. Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bar from Whole Foods ($1.99)
Nanaimo bars are not my favorite Canadian sweets, but they deserve to be listed. This non-baked dessert was invented in Nanaimo in 1986 and it has been a local source of pride since then. The signature of this sweet lies in its three distinct layers. The bottom layer is a chocolate and cracker crumb base, the middle layer is a custard icing and the top layer is a chocolate coating. I tend to find it a bit too heavy and sweet, but I enjoyed Laurelle’s Fine Foods‘ traditional Nanaimo Bar in Granville market as well as Whole Foods’.
5. Hedgehog Chocolates
Purdys’ chocolate hedgehog ($5.25 the pack of 3 chocolates)
Isn’t this hedgehog-shaped chocolate the cutest? It was invented by the Canadian chocolatier Purdys in the 90s and it has been one of brand’s flagship products since then. The milk chocolate shell is filled with a creamy and nutty gianduja ganache. It melts in the mouth as you bite into it. It’s an absolute wonder! Purdys has locations throughout the country so these cuties are easy to find. I have also spotted some in Lonsdale Quay market!
Note that prices and information featured in this article are subject to change.
