These Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts are a sweet and tasty treat! With a buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh peaches on top, they are sure to impress.
They’re like little bites of happiness! I love making these when I’m short on time; they’re quick to make and always a hit at gatherings. Who can resist peach goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Tart Shells: You can buy these pre-made for convenience, but if you prefer homemade, use a simple cookie dough or pie crust to shape and bake your own. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tart shells or use almond flour for a homemade crust.
Cream Cheese: For that rich and creamy texture, regular cream cheese works best. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese. Dairy-free fans can substitute with cream cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy.
Granulated Sugar: You can replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. If you’re cutting down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol.
Peaches: Canned peaches are great for convenience, but you can use fresh peaches when they’re in season for better flavor. If peaches are not available, nectarines or even berries could work beautifully.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Mixture Just Right?
The cream cheese filling is what makes these tarts special, so getting the texture smooth is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature; this helps it mix smoothly.
- Mix with sugar and vanilla in a bowl until it’s creamy – a hand mixer works wonders here!
- Don’t over-mix; stop once it’s smooth to keep it light and fluffy.
A creamy filling with zero lumps will make your tarts shine! Enjoy making and sharing these tasty treats!
Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 12) mini tart shells (pre-made or homemade)
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned peaches, drained and chopped (or fresh peaches, peeled and diced)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these delicious tarts will take you about 15 minutes of preparation time. After assembling the tarts, you’ll need to refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to let the filling set. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying your mini peach tarts in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, get your softened cream cheese ready. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. You can use a hand mixer to make this easier and fluffier, but a fork will work too if you don’t have one!
2. Fill the Tart Shells:
Now it’s time to fill those cute mini tart shells! Take about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture and scoop it into each tart shell. Smooth it out with a small spatula or the back of a spoon so it looks nice and even.
3. Add the Peaches:
Next up, sprinkle the chopped peaches on top of the cream cheese filling in each tart. Press them down gently to make sure they stick in the filling. This will give each tart that lovely peachy goodness we’re aiming for!
4. Presentation Time:
Arrange your filled tarts on a lovely serving platter. They’re looking scrumptious already! If you want, you can give them a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and a touch of elegance.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the tarts and pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the filling set, making sure they’re perfect when it’s time to serve!
6. Garnish & Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy these delightful, easy-to-make mini tarts as a fresh and creamy dessert!
FAQ for Easy Mini Peach and Cream Cheese Tarts
Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines, strawberries, or raspberries. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for easy topping on the tarts.
How Can I Make These Tarts Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese filling and fill the tart shells a day in advance. Just wait to add the fresh fruit until you’re ready to serve to keep them fresh and vibrant!
Can I Freeze the Tarts for Later?
While these tarts are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the unfilled tart shells separately. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the shells and fill them with the cream cheese mixture and peaches. They won’t be quite as crispy after freezing, but they’ll still taste great!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the tarts are topped with fresh fruit, it’s best to eat them sooner for the best flavor and texture.
