The History of BeaverTails: The Story Behind The Iconic Canadian Pastry
What is a BeaverTail? Canada’s Famous Pastry Explained!
No, we’re not talking about the backside of the semiaquatic animal! We’re talking about one of Canada’s most iconic foods. Up there with poutine and the butter tart is the famous Canadian pastry. Before we dive into this Ontario food history, we have to go over what exactly a BeaverTail pastry is. A delicious, deep-fried, flat dough, offered with a variety of topping options, this sweet treat is irresistible—a must-try Canadian food! The classic topping option is cinnamon and sugar, but there is a huge array of options, even some savoury ones, like the PouTail, combining two iconic Canadian treats: Poutine and the BeaverTail.
Where it all started: The History of BeaverTails in Killaloe, Ontario
BeaverTails originated in the small town of Killaloe, Ontario, in the heart of the Ottawa Valley. Right here, in this quaint Ontario town, the BeaverTail pastry was sold for the first time. What would later become a famous Canadian franchise had humble beginnings at an Ontario community fair in 1978. The founders, Grant and Pam Hooker, made and sold the pastry based on a recipe from Grant’s German grandmother. The pastries were a hit, and the rest is history!
The Killaloe Craft and Community Fair: Birthplace of BeaverTails
The Killaloe Craft and Community Fair is still going strong today! This August will mark the 50th Anniversary of the fair. Now sponsored by BeaverTails and the Hookers, the fair continues to be a place where people come together to share in different art forms, workshops, and, of course, food.
How BeaverTail Became an Iconic Canadian Franchise
In 1980, just two years after that fateful day at the fair in Killaloe, Ontario, the Hookers opened their first store in Ottawa, Ontario, at the Byward Market. This is the same location that is still open today! Their success continued in Ottawa, and the following year, they opened a stand on the frozen canal, forever tying their treat to the Canadian tradition of skating through the capital. This connection made it an integral piece of Canadian culture. They continued to grow and opened their first location in Montreal! In 1987, college student Pino di Ioia took a summer job managing the Montreal location. This student would eventually become CEO of BeaverTails. Talk about rising through the ranks!
Our Very Own BeaverTail Stand, in Killaloe, Ontario
Today, right in the town of Killaloe, Ontario, we have a BeaverTail stand open for the summer months. As an homage to where it all started, Pam and Grant Hooker opened this location to serve the Killaloe community and all the cottagers drawn in by the beautiful natural beauty (or the call of the BeaverTail). This stand is right on the banks of Brennen’s Creek, making it a beautiful spot to stop and enjoy a treat.
The Community's Pride in BeaverTails
The town of Killaloe is very proud to be the origin of the BeaverTail. You can tell when you drive by and see the big sign boasting its claim to fame! Make a trip out to the beautiful cottage country of the Ottawa Valley, and don’t miss this piece of Canadian history!
A Sweet Tradition
As you savor a BeaverTail, you’re not just enjoying a pastry; you’re partaking in a sweet tradition that has brought joy to countless people over the years. Each bite is a reminder of the community spirit that started it all. Whether you choose the classic cinnamon and sugar or venture into more adventurous toppings, every BeaverTail is a celebration of Canadian culture.
The Perfect Pairing
Imagine enjoying your BeaverTail while sitting by the lake, the sun shining down, and the gentle breeze rustling the leaves. It’s the perfect pairing for a day spent in nature. The combination of a delicious pastry and the serene surroundings creates a memorable experience that you’ll cherish long after your visit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BeaverTails are more than just a pastry; they are a symbol of Canadian heritage and community. From their humble beginnings in Killaloe to becoming a beloved treat across the country, they embody the spirit of togetherness and celebration. So, the next time you find yourself in Ontario, make sure to indulge in this iconic treat. You won’t regret it!
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