These mini peach and cream cheese tarts are like little bites of summer! Crisp pastry shells filled with creamy cheese and sweet, juicy peaches make them a treat to share.
They’re perfect for parties or just enjoying at home. I can’t resist making extra because they disappear so fast—who can say no to peaches and cream? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show, providing flaky layers. If you can’t find puff pastry, crescent roll dough works as a substitute, but the texture will differ a bit.
Cream Cheese: Use regular cream cheese for a rich texture, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, whipped cream cheese or even mascarpone can be used.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best when ripe and juicy. If they aren’t in season, canned peaches (well-drained) or frozen peach slices (thawed) can be great alternatives.
Egg Wash: This is used for a golden finish. If you prefer a vegan option, a mixture of plant-based milk and a dash of oil can work too.
Apricot Jam: For a glaze, apricot jam adds a lovely shine. You can swap it with peach jam or even honey for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Puff Pastry to Rise Perfectly?
The key to perfectly risen puff pastry is handling it carefully and keeping it cold. When you roll it out, make sure it’s still chilled to create those nice layers.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Roll it just enough to fit your baking sheet.
- When you place the pastry in the oven, the steam from the moisture in the dough creates the lifting effect.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking; a hot oven helps achieve that puff!
Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tarts:
- 1 package (about 8 oz) puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp apricot jam or honey (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mini tart recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake, making it a quick and tasty dessert option. Enjoying them warm or after a little cooling time adds to their charm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the tarts from sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 4 equal squares (or smaller squares for mini tarts) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create a sweet and rich filling for your tarts!
4. Assemble the Tarts:
Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space around the edges for folding.
5. Add the Peach Slices:
Place the thinly sliced peaches neatly over the cream cheese layer, arranging them in a lovely pattern if you like.
6. Sprinkle with Sweetness:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the peach slices to give them a delicious caramel flavor.
7. Fold and Brush:
Gently fold up the edges of the puff pastry over the filling (don’t worry if it’s not perfect!). Use the beaten egg to brush the edges, which helps them turn golden and crispy while baking.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
9. Glaze for Shine (Optional):
If you’d like a shiny finish, warm the apricot jam or honey slightly and brush it over the warm tarts as soon as they come out of the oven.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature—every bite is simply delightful!
These mini peach and cream cheese tarts are sure to impress your friends and family, making them a lovely addition to any gathering or a sweet indulgence for yourself. Enjoy!
FAQ for Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before slicing to avoid soggy tarts.
How Do I Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive the flaky pastry.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day ahead! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and assemble the tarts just before baking to enjoy the best texture.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
You can definitely get creative! Other fruits like sliced apples, pears, or berries can work beautifully with this cream cheese mixture. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
