These easy mini peach and cream cheese tarts are a sweet treat! With a buttery crust and creamy filling, they bring together fluffy cream cheese and juicy peaches in every bite.
Making these tarts is a breeze! I love how quick they come together, and they look fancy without the effort. Perfect for parties, or just a snack while binge-watching my favorite show! 🍑💕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Frozen puff pastry saves time and effort. You can make your own if you’re up for it, but I find the store-bought version perfect for these tarts. If gluten is a concern, try using gluten-free pastry instead.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds tanginess, but mascarpone could work for a richer taste. I like the mix of cream cheese with a hint of lemon zest for added freshness, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
Peach: Fresh peaches are amazing, but canned peaches are a great alternative, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season. Just make sure they’re well-drained to avoid soggy tarts!
Apricot Jam: This provides a lovely glaze. If you don’t have apricot jam, any fruit jam or even honey can add a nice touch instead.
How Do You Make the Puff Pastry Rise Perfectly?
Getting puff pastry to rise nicely is essential for those flaky layers. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the pastry puff up right away.
- Don’t skip rolling out the pastry. This creates thinner layers that will puff up evenly.
- Leave space between tarts on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, aiding in rising.
Keep an eye on them as they bake, so you can catch that perfect golden brown color!
Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tarts:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 fresh peach, thinly sliced (or canned peach slices, drained)
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-18 minutes for baking, so you can have these tasty tarts ready in just under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dessert or a special breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes for easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet gently to smooth out any creases. Cut the pastry into 2-inch squares. These will be the bases for your tarts.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
Place the pastry squares onto the lined baking sheet, giving them a little space apart. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Fill with Cream Cheese:
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. Make sure to spread it slightly but keep the edges clear for puffing up.
5. Add the Peach Slices:
Next, take 2-3 thin slices of peach and arrange them on top of the cream cheese filling for each tart. Peaches add a lovely fruity flavor and beautiful color!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
7. Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like, warm the apricot jam in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s easy to brush. Use a pastry brush to glaze the peaches lightly for a shiny finish.
8. Let Cool and Serve:
Once done, let the tarts cool slightly. If you desire, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet touch before serving. Enjoy these delightful mini peach and cream cheese tarts warm or at room temperature!
Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! 🍑✨
FAQ for Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be a great substitute. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water to prevent sogginess in your tarts. Slice them thinly for even baking.
Can I Make These Tarts in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and cut the puff pastry squares ahead of time. Keep the pastry covered in the fridge to prevent drying out. Assemble and bake them just before you plan to serve for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the pastry soggy.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
You can definitely swap out peaches for other fruits! Try using blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries for a delicious twist. Just keep an eye on bake times as different fruits may release varying amounts of moisture.
