Peach Cream Cheese Tarts Delightful and Easy Dessert

If you're craving a dessert that's both simple and delicious, look no further! Peach Cream Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time. With a crispy puff pastry base, creamy cheese filling, and sweet, juicy peaches, every bite is pure joy. Join me as we explore easy steps and tips for making this delightful dessert. Let’s dive in and make your sweet cravings come true!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make peach cream cheese tarts, gather these ingredients. First, get a package of store-bought puff pastry. It saves time and works great. You need eight ounces of softened cream cheese. This cheese makes the tarts creamy and rich.

Next, add a quarter cup of powdered sugar to sweeten the cream cheese. A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a lovely flavor. For the star of the dish, grab two ripe peaches. Slice them thin for the best look and taste.

You will also need one tablespoon of honey. This adds a touch of natural sweetness. A half teaspoon of cinnamon gives warmth and spice to the dish. Finally, an egg is for the egg wash. This helps the edges turn golden brown.

Feel free to use fresh mint leaves for garnish. They add color and a fresh taste. With these ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This sets the stage for a perfect bake. Next, take the thawed puff pastry and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. You want it smooth and a bit thinner. Use a round cutter to cut circles about 4 inches wide. Place these circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup. Use a fork to poke small holes in each circle's center. Make sure to leave a ½ inch border around the edge. This border will rise beautifully when you bake.

Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Beat it until it's nice and smooth. This step is key for a creamy texture. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until it's combined. You want a creamy filling that tastes sweet yet balanced. This mixture will be the star of your tarts.

Assembling the Tarts

Now, it's time to assemble. Take each puff pastry circle and spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top. Be careful to keep the edges clear. This will allow the pastry to puff up nicely. Next, arrange the thinly sliced peaches over the cream cheese. Their juicy sweetness makes the tarts special. In a small bowl, mix the honey and cinnamon together. Drizzle this mixture over the peaches for added flavor. It brings warmth and depth to each bite.

Baking and Cooling Process

Before baking, beat the egg in a small bowl. Use it to brush the edges of the pastry. This gives a lovely golden color when baked. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once done, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. This cooling time is important. It allows the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves. They add a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Puff Pastry

To get the best puff pastry, start with good-quality store-bought dough. Thaw it carefully. Roll it out gently on a floured surface. Aim for even thickness. This ensures it puffs up nicely. Always poke holes in the center. This helps steam escape and keeps the center flat. Brush the edges with egg wash for a golden tint.

Variations for Flavor Enhancements

You can switch up the flavors easily. Try using different fruits like berries or apples. Add lemon zest for a zesty kick. Mix in a bit of almond extract for a nutty taste. If you like spice, add a pinch of nutmeg with the cinnamon. For a creamier filling, mix in some sour cream with the cream cheese.

Presentation Suggestions

Make your tarts look pretty. Arrange the sliced peaches in a fan shape. This adds charm to each tart. Use fresh mint leaves to garnish. They add a pop of color and freshness. Serve on a colorful plate for a fun touch. Dust some powdered sugar over the tarts before serving for extra sweetness.

Variations

Substitutes for Peaches

If you cannot find peaches, use other fruits. Fresh nectarines or apricots work well. You can also use berries like strawberries or blueberries for a twist. These fruits add their own unique taste. Experiment to find your favorite flavor.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

For those needing gluten-free options, try using gluten-free puff pastry. Many brands make this now. You can also use a simple almond flour crust. Just mix almond flour, butter, and a little sugar. This option gives a nice nutty flavor to your tarts.

Alternative Toppings and Garnishes

Get creative with toppings! Try adding a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice texture. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can give a fresh taste. For sweetness, drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Tarts

To store leftover Peach Cream Cheese Tarts, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. This method keeps the tarts fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions

When you're ready to enjoy your tarts again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tarts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This will make the pastry crisp again. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may get soft. Heat for about 15-20 seconds in the microwave if you choose this method.

Freezing Options

You can freeze unbaked tarts for up to one month. Assemble the tarts without baking them. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you are ready to bake, no need to thaw. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh tarts anytime!

FAQs

Can I use fresh or canned peaches?

You can use either fresh or canned peaches. Fresh peaches taste great and have a nice crunch. Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. Canned peaches are also good. Drain them well to avoid excess juice. Both options work well in peach cream cheese tarts.

How long do peach cream cheese tarts last?

Peach cream cheese tarts last about three days in the fridge. Store them in a tight container to keep them fresh. If you notice the pastry getting soft, eat them sooner. They are best enjoyed fresh but can still be tasty after a few days.

What's the best way to serve these tarts?

Serve these tarts warm or at room temperature. They look beautiful on a platter. Add a sprig of fresh mint for color. You can also drizzle extra honey on top. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. Enjoying them with friends makes them even better!

You’ve learned how to make delicious peach cream cheese tarts. With steps for preparing puff pastry, mixing cream cheese, and baking, you can create a tasty treat. Remember to choose fresh peaches for the best flavor. Use my tips for storage and serving, and feel free to try variations. Whether you're enjoying them right away or saving them for later, these tarts are sure to please. Now, get in the kitchen and let your creativity shin

Peach Cream Cheese Tarts

Delicious tarts made with cream cheese and fresh peaches, perfect for dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 package store-bought puff pastry (thawed)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 egg for egg wash
• to taste fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth and thin it slightly. Cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter.
• Place the pastry circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to poke small holes in the center of each circle, leaving a border of about ½ inch around the edge.
• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined and creamy.
• Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture over each pastry circle, keeping the border clear for rising.
• Arrange the thinly sliced peaches on top of the cream cheese layer. In a small bowl, mix the honey and cinnamon, then drizzle it over the peaches.
• Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash to achieve a golden brown color when baked.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
• Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Keyword cream cheese, dessert, peach, tarts