Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts – Butter and Bliss
Introduction
Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with creamy, rich cream cheese. These tarts are easy to make and are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a delicious dessert at home. With a flaky puff pastry base, these tarts are not only tasty but also look beautiful on any dessert table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it brings together the fantastic flavors of peaches and cream cheese, creating a delightful combination that everyone will enjoy. Second, it is simple and requires only a few ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Lastly, these tarts can be made in advance and are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, ensuring that you have a delicious dessert ready whenever needed.
How to Make Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Making these Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to create this scrumptious dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh peaches, diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into squares that will fit into muffin tins.
- Press the squares into greased muffin cups.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Fold in the diced peaches gently.
- Fill each pastry cup with the peach-cream cheese mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
These tarts are best served warm or at room temperature. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance. They make a beautiful dessert for any occasion, and guests will love their individual sizes.
How to Store Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
To store the tarts, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the tarts before baking. Just wrap them well and store in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- You can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are not available. Just thaw, drain, and then dice them before adding to the mixture.
- To ensure the pastry stays crisp, avoid overfilling the tarts with the cream cheese mixture.
Variation
For a twist, you can substitute peaches with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or apples. Each fruit will add its unique flavor, changing the tarts to suit the season or your taste preferences.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these tarts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tarts and assemble them beforehand. Just bake them on the day you want to serve for the best texture.
Q2: What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese for a lighter texture or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Q3: How do I know when the tarts are done?
The tarts are done when they are golden brown on top and the pastry is cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean.
These Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are not just easy to make; they are sure to impress with their taste and presentation. Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful dessert!
