These Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are a real treat! With a creamy filling and sweet peach topping, they look lovely and taste even better. Perfect for any gathering!
Making these tarts is a breeze! I love how the cream cheese blends with the peaches. Just be prepared for people to ask for seconds—trust me, it’s hard to resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is great for a quick crust. If you don’t have it, consider using puff pastry or pre-made mini tart shells instead. Both options still give a yummy base for the tarts.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a rich and creamy filling. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Just remember, they might change the flavor slightly.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for flavor and texture! If they’re out of season, canned peaches work well; just drain them thoroughly. You can also use other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for variety.
Lemon Juice: This is optional but helps keep fresh peaches from browning. If you’re out of lemon juice, a splash of orange juice works too!
How Do I Get Perfect Tart Shells?
Creating crunchy tart shells is simple with a few tips. If you’re using the crescent roll dough, roll it out slightly before cutting it to fit properly.
- Press each triangle evenly into the muffin tin, making sure there are no gaps, so they bake evenly.
- For a crispier base, pre-bake the shells for about 5 minutes before adding the filling.
- Watch closely while baking! Remove them as soon as they’re golden to prevent over-baking.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfect tart shells every time! Enjoy making your mini tarts!
Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart Base:
- 1 package (about 8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or mini tart shells
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2-3 fresh peaches, peeled and thinly sliced (or canned peach slices, drained)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to prevent peaches from browning)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tart Base:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using refrigerated crescent roll dough, unroll it and separate it into individual triangles. Press each triangle into the cups of a mini muffin tin, forming small tart shells. If you opt for pre-made mini tart shells, just lay them out on a baking sheet.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create a luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the peaches!
3. Assemble the Tarts:
Spoon about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into each tart shell, spreading it evenly. This is the creamy goodness that your peaches will sit on top of!
4. Add the Peaches:
Next, arrange the thinly sliced peach pieces on top of the cream cheese filling in each tart. If you’re using fresh peaches, a quick toss with lemon juice will help keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
5. Bake the Tarts:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crusts are golden and the cream cheese has set. The aroma will be delightful!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their shape as they cool down.
7. Add the Finishing Touch:
If desired, dust the cooled tarts lightly with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
8. Enjoy:
Serve these mini peach and cream cheese tarts warm or chilled. Dive in and enjoy this deliciously sweet treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using frozen peaches, make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture to avoid making the tart soggy. Slice them thinly before arranging on the tarts for a great texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven to regain that freshly-baked texture.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a quick mix before filling the tarts.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
While peaches are delightful, you can definitely substitute with other fruits like berries, sliced apples, or pears. Just ensure the fruits are juicy and complement the creamy filling well!
