These mini peach and cream cheese tarts are a sweet bite of sunshine! With a buttery crust, creamy filling, and juicy peaches on top, they’re simply delightful.
Making these tarts is so easy, even your kitchen novice friends can do it! I love serving them at parties. They disappear faster than you can say, “Who’s hungry?” 😄
Plus, they make a perfect treat for a warm day! I usually whip up a batch and enjoy them as a light dessert after dinner—refreshing and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is the base for your tarts, lending a flaky texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use puff pastry or a homemade pie crust instead.
Cream Cheese: For the filling, cream cheese provides a rich, tangy flavor. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the texture will be creamier.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal, but you can use canned peaches in syrup if fresh ones aren’t available. Just drain them well and pat dry before slicing.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar is used for sweetness. You can try using honey or maple syrup in a pinch, adjusting the quantity to taste.
How Do You Use Crescent Roll Dough for Tarts?
Using crescent roll dough is a fun and simple way to make tarts! Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven, so the dough bakes evenly.
- Unroll the dough carefully, to avoid tearing. Cut into small squares that fit mini muffin cups.
- Press each square into the cups gently, making sure to cover the sides well for a good crust.
- Consider refrigerating the crusts for a few minutes before filling them. This helps them maintain their shape during baking.
Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tart Shell:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
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
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-18 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, you’ll be enjoying your tasty little tarts in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. These will be your tart shells! Cut each triangle into smaller squares that will fit into your mini muffin cups.
3. Forming the Tarts:
Take each square of dough and press it into a mini muffin cup, ensuring you cover the bottom and sides for a sturdy little crust.
4. Making the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to beat everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Filling the Shells:
Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into each crust shell. Fill them about 2/3 of the way full, so there’s room for the peaches!
6. Adding the Peaches:
Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Arrange the thin peach slices on top of the cream cheese filling in a beautiful pattern—you can get creative here!
7. Baking the Tarts:
Put the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
8. Optional Glazing:
If you’d like a lovely shine on your tarts, warm the apricot jam slightly and then brush it over the peach slices.
9. Cooling and Serving:
Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before gently removing them. Serve them warm, or let them cool completely—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your easy mini peach and cream cheese tarts! They are a delightful treat for any occasion! 🍑✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! These tarts are versatile. You can use fresh berries (like strawberries or blueberries), sliced apples, or even pears. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to match the fruit’s natural flavor.
Can I Make These Tarts Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Look for gluten-free crescent roll dough or use a gluten-free pie crust. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the jam, are also gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm, reheat them briefly in the oven or microwave.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day ahead! Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make the tarts, allow it to sit out at room temperature for a bit before filling the shells.
