Nutrition Facts — Treacle Tart
* Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Golden syrup is 100% sugar-derived and drives the very high sugar content. One tablespoon of Lyle's Golden Syrup contains about 60 calories — the tart filling uses several tablespoons per slice.
About Treacle Tart
Treacle Tart appeared in British cookbooks from the late 19th century, after Abram Lyle & Sons introduced Lyle's Golden Syrup in 1883 — the world's oldest branded food product still sold in its original form. The tart became a standard of British home baking and school dinner menus, particularly popular in the post-war era when simple, sweet, filling puddings were valued. The Harry Potter connection gave it renewed fame in the 21st century, introducing it to a global audience.
Treacle Tart — Calorie Variations
Cooking Tips
- Use day-old white bread for breadcrumbs — stale bread absorbs the syrup better.
- Warm the golden syrup before mixing — it incorporates more easily.
- Chill the pastry-lined tin before adding filling to prevent shrinkage.
- Serve warm with cold clotted cream or vanilla ice cream.
Healthier Alternatives to Treacle Tart
Storage & Shelf Life
Keeps at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for 5 days. Reheat slices at 160°C/320°F for 8 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Treacle Tart?
Treacle Tart is a British tart filled with golden syrup (light treacle), breadcrumbs, and lemon juice in a shortcrust pastry shell. It is sweet, dense, and distinctively British.
Is it made with black treacle?
Despite the name, classic Treacle Tart uses golden syrup (light treacle), not black treacle. Black treacle has a much stronger, more bitter flavour and is not traditionally used in this recipe.
How many calories in Treacle Tart?
A standard slice (about 120g) contains 380–440 calories, primarily from the golden syrup filling. It is one of Britain's most indulgent classic desserts.