Description
These Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are a delightful summer dessert featuring flaky puff pastry layered with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling and topped with fresh, thinly sliced peaches. Finished with a glossy honey or apricot jam glaze, these tarts are easy to make and perfect for entertaining or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Topping and Glaze
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey or apricot jam (for glaze)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Transfer these rectangles to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them comfortably.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread about a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges to allow puffing during baking. Carefully arrange thin peach slices over the cream cheese layer on each tart.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the edges of each pastry rectangle with this egg wash to help create a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry has risen and turned a golden brown color.
- Glaze and Cool: While the tarts are still warm, brush the peach slices with honey or warmed apricot jam to give them a beautiful glossy finish. Allow the tarts to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute nectarines or plums for peaches if desired.
- For extra sweetness and a crunchy texture, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on the pastry edges before baking.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture.
