These cute mini tarts are filled with creamy cheese and sweet peaches. They are bite-sized and perfect for any gathering! Plus, they are super easy to make.
I love how colorful they look on the table. Every time I make them, they disappear fast—even the plate gets cleaned! 🍑✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry or Tart Dough: Puff pastry gives a flaky texture, but you can use store-bought pie crust instead. If you’re short on time, pre-made shells work well too!
Cream Cheese: This adds richness, but if you prefer something lighter, consider using Greek yogurt. It won’t be as thick but will still taste great.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal, but you can use canned peaches in syrup as well. Just drain them well before caramelizing!
Brown Sugar: If you’re out, use white sugar or coconut sugar. They will sweeten the peaches nicely too.
Honey or Apricot Jam: Maple syrup can be a great substitute for honey. You might also try using any fruit jam you enjoy for glazing.
How Can I Caramelize Peaches Perfectly?
Caramelizing peaches adds a lovely sweet depth to your tarts. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Use ripe but firm peaches to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Heat the butter and brown sugar together until bubbling; this creates a nice caramel base.
- Add peach slices and let them cook in the bubbly mixture for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn golden and soften slightly.
- Be sure to remove them from heat right when they reach that beautiful caramel color to avoid burning.
With these tips, your mini peach tarts will have that perfect glaze and flavor! Enjoy your baking! 🍑✨
Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart Shells:
- 1 sheet puff pastry or tart dough (enough to make about 6 mini tart shells)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peach Topping:
- 2 large ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or apricot jam (for glazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus approximately 15 minutes to bake the tart shells. After assembly, let the tart chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour of time to get these delicious tarts ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tart Shells:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini tart pan or mini muffin tin so your tarts don’t stick. Roll out your puff pastry or tart dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut out circles slightly larger than the openings in your tart pan. Gently press the dough circles into the molds and prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent them from puffing.
2. Bake the Tart Shells:
Place your tart shells in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
While your tart shells are cooling, it’s time to make the filling! In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is going to make your tarts extra tasty!
4. Caramelize the Peaches:
Now, let’s get to those peaches! In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the brown sugar and stir until it’s dissolved and bubbly. Carefully add the peach slices to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re tender and nice and caramelized. Then, remove them from the heat and set aside.
5. Assemble the Tarts:
Next up, it’s assembly time! Spoon or pipe the creamy filling into each cooled tart shell—don’t be shy, fill them well! Then, arrange the caramelized peach slices beautifully on top of the cream cheese filling.
6. Add the Glaze:
For that extra shine, warm up the honey or apricot jam slightly and brush it over the peaches. This glaze will not only look pretty but will also enhance the sweetness of the peaches!
7. Chill and Enjoy:
Finally, pop your assembled tarts in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely and brings the flavors together. When you’re ready, serve these delightful mini peach and cream cheese tarts to your friends and family!
Enjoy the delicate crisp crust filled with smooth cream cheese and topped with beautifully glazed, juicy caramelized peaches! 🍑✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even berries. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the fruit’s firmness!
What If I Don’t Have a Mini Tart Pan?
No problem! You can use a standard muffin tin or even a regular pie dish. Just note that baking times may vary, so keep an eye on the tart shells as they bake.
How Do I Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the crust may lose some crispness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make the Cream Cheese Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using to ensure it’s smooth and creamy again.
