These Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tartlets are a delightful treat! With a buttery crust and creamy filling topped with sweet peaches, they are perfect for any occasion.
Who can resist a mini dessert? I love making these for summer gatherings. They’re just the right size for a sweet snack, and trust me, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: I love using refrigerated pie crust for ease, but homemade is always a fantastic option. You can also use puff pastry for a flakier texture. A gluten-free pastry is an excellent substitute too!
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese works wonderfully, but you can switch it with mascarpone for a richer flavor. Vegan cream cheese is a great alternative if you’re going dairy-free.
Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor! If they’re out of season, canned peaches work fine. Just make sure you drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Granulated Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute coconut sugar or even honey. Just keep in mind that honey may change the texture slightly.
How Can I Prevent Soggy Tart Shells?
To keep your tart shells from getting soggy, follow these simple steps:
- Pre-bake the crusts for a few minutes before adding the filling. This helps set the dough!
- Toss your peaches in a bit of flour before mixing. This will absorb some moisture during baking.
- Using fresh, firm peaches is crucial as they have less water than ripe ones.
These tips will help maintain that lovely crisp texture in your tartlets!
How to Make Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart Shells:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pastry dough)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Peach Topping:
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, to toss peaches)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking. So, you can whip up these delicious tartlets in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert or a pleasing treat at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your tartlets cook evenly and become wonderfully golden brown.
2. Prepare the Tart Shells:
Roll out the refrigerated pie crust on a floured surface. Using a round cutter, cut out small circles (about 3 inches in diameter). This will make the perfect size for your mini muffin tin. Gently press each circle into the mini muffin cups to form little tart shells. Make sure they fit snugly!
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be your luscious filling.
4. Prepare the Peach Topping:
In a separate bowl, toss the diced peaches with lemon juice and optional flour. The flour will help absorb any extra juice and prevent the tartlets from sogginess. It’s a simple trick that works wonders!
5. Assemble the Tartlets:
Spoon about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into each tart shell, spreading it gently. Then, add a spoonful of the peach mixture on top. Don’t be shy—use as many peaches as you like!
6. Bake the Tartlets:
Place the mini muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for a lovely golden crust and a filling that has set up nicely.
7. Cooling Time:
Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, dust the tartlets lightly with powdered sugar if you wish. These delightful treats are ready to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite of your mini peach and cream cheese tartlets!
FAQ for Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tartlets
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. A quick tip: pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid adding too much moisture to the tartlets.
Can I Make These Tartlets in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tart shells and cream cheese filling ahead of time. Assemble them just before baking for the best texture. If you have leftover baked tartlets, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What if I Don’t Have Mini Muffin Tins?
No worries! If you don’t have mini muffin tins, you can use a standard muffin tin. The baking time may need slight adjustment, so keep an eye on them while they bake. They will be larger but just as delicious!
How Can I Customize the Flavor of the Filling?
You can easily customize the cream cheese filling by adding citrus zest (like lemon or orange), a bit of cinnamon, or even a splash of almond extract for a different twist. Get creative with flavors that you love!
