These mini peach and cream cheese tartlets are a delicious treat! The creamy filling pairs perfectly with sweet, juicy peaches on a flaky pastry shell.
They’re so cute that you might just want to serve them at a party or keep them all to yourself! I love how quick they are to make; just bake, fill, and enjoy the smiles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star ingredient for a flaky and buttery base. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough layered with melted butter or a shortcrust pastry for a different texture.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives that rich, creamy filling. You can substitute with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches shine in this recipe. If peaches aren’t in season, substitute with apricots or canned peaches (drained) for convenience. You could also use berries for a different flavor profile!
Honey: It’s optional for glazing but adds a nice touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or a simple sugar glaze also works well if honey isn’t on hand.
How Do You Make Puff Pastry Puff Perfectly?
Getting that perfect puff in your pastry is very important for these tartlets. Follow these steps for best results:
- Roll out the pastry to about 1/4 inch thick to ensure it puffs up well.
- Prick the center lightly with a fork, but don’t go all the way through; this keeps the edges puffed.
- Brush the edges with egg wash to create a golden color during baking.
Keep a close eye on them in the oven as baking times can vary! You want nice golden color and puff.
How to Make Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tartlets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for glaze)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes until you can enjoy your mini tartlets. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your tartlets don’t stick when baking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into small squares, approximately 3×3 inches. Place these squares onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
3. Prick the Pastry:
Using a fork, gently prick the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to poke all the way through—just enough to keep them from puffing too much in the middle. Leave the edges untouched; these will rise beautifully!
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a mixer or a fork to mix everything until smooth and creamy. This will make a delicious, sweet filling!
5. Assemble the Tartlets:
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square, ensuring you don’t go to the edges. This is where the peach slices will rest.
6. Add the Peaches:
Now, take your thinly sliced peaches and arrange them on top of the cream cheese, overlapping them a bit for a pretty look. Squeeze a little lemon juice over them to keep them fresh.
7. Brush with Egg Wash:
Take the beaten egg, and gently brush it along the edges of each pastry square. This will give them a beautiful golden color once baked.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the tartlets in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them for the perfect color!
9. Glaze and Cool:
As soon as they’re out of the oven, you can brush the peaches with honey for a lovely glossy finish if you’d like. Let the tartlets cool slightly on the baking sheet.
10. Dust and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar if you want a sweeter touch. These tartlets can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a lovely dessert for any occasion!
Enjoy your delightful mini peach and cream cheese tartlets, and prepare for all the compliments!
FAQ: Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tartlets
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before arranging on the tartlets to prevent sogginess.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a cream cheese alternative, try mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter option; just keep in mind it won’t be as creamy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to bring back their crispness.
Can I Make the Tartlets Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese filling and slice the peaches a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the tartlets just before serving to maintain their flaky texture!
