These Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are a sweet and creamy treat perfect for any gathering! With a crispy crust and a luscious filling, they’re bite-sized delights.
Trust me, one is never enough! I love to serve these at parties because they look so fancy, but they’re super easy to make. Just bake the crust, mix the filling, and top with fresh peaches!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the tarts, bringing that flaky texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use phyllo dough or even a pre-made pie crust, but puff pastry is best for that light, crispy bite.
Cream Cheese: Traditional cream cheese gives a rich, creamy filling. You can swap it with mascarpone for a lighter touch or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal, but you can use canned peaches if they’re well-drained, or even substitute with nectarines or plums for a different flavor.
Brown Sugar: It adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you don’t have it, regular granulated sugar can work, but brown sugar is worth it for the taste.
How Do I Get My Puff Pastry to Rise Perfectly?
Getting puff pastry to rise beautifully requires a few key steps. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Make sure your pastry is fully thawed but still cold before using. This helps it puff better in the oven.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Just roll it out gently to keep those layers intact.
- Chill the pastries for about 10-15 minutes after assembling and before baking. This helps them stay flaky.
Following these tips will give you that lovely puff and golden color everyone likes!
How to Make Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (thawed if frozen)
- Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Peach Topping:
- 2 fresh peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the Finish:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp apricot jam or honey (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. After baking, let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving, making the total time around 35-40 minutes. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the tarts start to cook at the right temperature for that delicious puffiness. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the tarts won’t stick.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into small squares or rectangles, about 3 x 3 inches, which will be the base for your tarts.
3. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy—this will be the delicious filling for your tarts.
4. Assemble the Tarts:
Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. Make sure to leave about a 1/2 inch border around the edges so you have space to fold the crust.
5. Add the Peach Slices:
Neatly arrange the thin slices of peaches over the cream cheese layer. The colorful peaches not only add a pop of flavor but also make your tarts look beautiful!
6. Create the Flavor Boost:
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Brush this mixture over the peach slices to boost the flavor and give them a shine when baked.
7. Shape the Pastry:
Gently fold and press the edges of the puff pastry squares to create a natural border for each tart. This keeps the filling inside while they bake.
8. Add the Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl. Using a brush, apply the egg wash to the edges of the pastries. This will give them a lovely golden color as they bake.
9. Bake the Tarts:
Place your prepared tarts in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want the pastry to be puffed up and golden, and the peaches tender but not mushy.
10. Optional Glaze:
If you’re using apricot jam or honey, warm it slightly and brush it over the peaches for a glossy look after baking. This adds a nice touch of sweetness!
11. Cool and Serve:
Let the tarts cool for a few minutes on a rack before serving. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. They make a delightful dessert or snack!
Enjoy these Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts as a delicious treat that combines flaky pastry, creamy filling, and fresh peach goodness. Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before slicing to avoid a soggy tart.
How Can I Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving to regain their crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try using mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions. You can also use ricotta cheese mixed with a bit of powdered sugar for sweetness.
Can I Make the Tarts Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tarts up to the baking stage, cover them, and refrigerate for a few hours. Just bake them just before serving for the freshest taste!
