A Visitor’s Guide to BeaverTails: History, Flavors, and Where to Try Them
BeaverTails are one of Canada’s most iconic and beloved snacks, known for their unique shape, sweet toppings, and deep connection to Canadian culture. This fried dough pastry, shaped to resemble a beaver’s tail, is a must-try treat when visiting Ottawa or other parts of Canada. Whether you enjoy them during Winterlude while skating on the Rideau Canal or at one of the many BeaverTails stands across the country, these pastries offer a delicious taste of Canada’s culinary heritage.
The History of BeaverTails
The BeaverTail pastry was first introduced in 1978 by the Hooker family, who began selling their fried dough creation at a local market in Killaloe, Ontario. The treat quickly gained popularity, and by 1980, the first BeaverTails stand opened in Ottawa’s historic ByWard Market. Since then, BeaverTails have become a staple of Canadian cuisine, with stands now located across the country and even internationally.
The company’s name and pastry shape are inspired by Canada’s national symbol, the beaver, and reflect the country’s connection to nature and wildlife. Over the years, BeaverTails has grown into a recognizable brand, with new flavors and toppings added to the original concept, while still maintaining its authentic Canadian roots.
What is a BeaverTail?
A BeaverTail is a deep-fried, hand-stretched piece of dough, traditionally served warm with a variety of sweet toppings. The dough is shaped like a beaver’s tail, which gives it its distinctive appearance. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a perfect blend of textures. The pastry itself is typically not overly sweet, allowing the toppings to shine.
Popular BeaverTail Toppings
One of the best parts about BeaverTails is the variety of toppings available, allowing you to customize your pastry to your taste. Some of the most popular toppings include:
- Cinnamon and Sugar:
- The original BeaverTail topping, a simple but delicious combination of cinnamon and sugar, remains a fan favorite. This classic choice is perfect for those who enjoy a traditional, sweet flavor.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (Nutella):
- For chocolate lovers, the Nutella-topped BeaverTail is a popular option. The warm dough paired with creamy hazelnut spread creates a rich and indulgent treat.
- Maple Butter:
- As a nod to Canada’s maple syrup heritage, the Maple Butter BeaverTail is topped with a sweet, buttery maple spread. It’s a true Canadian favorite, perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of the country.
- Banana Chocolate:
- This combination includes sliced bananas and a drizzle of chocolate syrup, offering a sweet and fruity twist on the traditional BeaverTail.
- Apple Cinnamon:
- A warm, comforting choice, this BeaverTail is topped with apple slices and sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, reminiscent of an apple pie.
- Cookies and Cream:
- For a decadent dessert, the Cookies and Cream BeaverTail is topped with crushed cookies and whipped cream. It’s a fun and indulgent option for those looking for a dessert-inspired treat.
- Reese’s Pieces:
- Topped with chocolate, peanut butter, and Reese’s Pieces candies, this BeaverTail is a hit with peanut butter fans. The combination of salty and sweet is irresistible.
Where to Try BeaverTails in Ottawa
Ottawa is one of the best places to enjoy a BeaverTail, especially during the winter months when the city’s iconic Rideau Canal Skateway becomes a hotspot for skating and snacks. Some of the top locations to try BeaverTails in Ottawa include:
- ByWard Market:
- The original BeaverTails location in Ottawa, situated in the lively ByWard Market district, is a must-visit for first-timers. The market itself is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of food stalls, restaurants, and shops.
- Rideau Canal Skateway:
- During the winter, BeaverTails stands pop up along the Rideau Canal Skateway, offering skaters a warm and delicious snack as they enjoy the world’s largest outdoor skating rink. This is one of the most quintessentially Canadian experiences, especially during Ottawa’s Winterlude festival.
- Dow’s Lake Pavilion:
- Another great spot to enjoy a BeaverTail while taking in the views is the Dow’s Lake Pavilion. Whether you’re visiting the area for boating or skating, a BeaverTail makes for the perfect treat.
- Sparks Street:
- Located in downtown Ottawa, the BeaverTails stand on Sparks Street is a convenient stop while exploring the city’s main attractions, including Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial.
BeaverTails Across Canada
While Ottawa is the birthplace of BeaverTails, the pastry has spread across Canada, with stands in major cities, popular tourist spots, and even at ski resorts. Some other locations where you can find BeaverTails include:
- Montreal: Visit the BeaverTails stand in Old Montreal, near the bustling waterfront, to enjoy a pastry while exploring the city’s historic district.
- Banff National Park: In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you can find BeaverTails at ski resorts and outdoor destinations, making it a perfect après-ski treat.
- Toronto: BeaverTails stands can be found at tourist hotspots like the Toronto Waterfront and Canada’s Wonderland amusement park.
BeaverTails Abroad
BeaverTails have even gained international popularity, with stands opening in the United States and beyond. You can find BeaverTails in places like Disney’s Epcot in Orlando, Florida, and at special events and fairs in various countries.
A Canadian Culinary Icon
Whether you’re visiting Ottawa in the winter for a skate along the Rideau Canal or exploring Canada’s national parks in the summer, enjoying a BeaverTail is a quintessentially Canadian experience. With its humble beginnings as a family recipe and its rise to national fame, the BeaverTail is more than just a pastry—it’s a symbol of Canadian culinary tradition and a delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round.
For more information and locations, visit the official BeaverTails website: https://www.beavertails.com
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