These Mini Peach Cream Cheese Tarts are cute little bites of heaven! Made with a creamy filling and sweet peach topping, they’re perfect for any gathering.
They’re quick to whip up, and honestly, who can resist that delicious peach flavor paired with cream cheese? I love serving these at parties—they disappear fast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese for a smooth filling. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative, which works well in this recipe.
Granulated Sugar: For a healthier version, use honey or maple syrup. Just remember these might alter the texture a bit, so add them gradually until it’s sweet enough for your taste.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal! If they’re out of season, feel free to use canned or frozen peaches—just make sure they are well-drained before chopping.
Mini Tart Shells: You can buy pre-made shells, or easily make your own using pie crust dough. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tart shells or use almond flour to make your own crust.
Peach Jam: This adds a nice glaze. If you don’t have peach jam, any fruit preserve or even a bit of honey can work. Just warm it slightly to make spreading easier.
How Do You Make Sure Your Tarts Have the Perfect Creamy Filling?
The key to a smooth and creamy filling is to thoroughly beat the cream cheese. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. You can use an electric mixer for best results!
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Mix in the sugar and vanilla until fully combined and smooth.
- Don’t overbeat, as it can incorporate too much air, changing the texture.
Incorporating these tips ensures that your filling turns out just right, making your tarts a hit with everyone!
How to Make Mini Peach Cream Cheese Tarts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembling:
- 1 package mini tart shells (about 24 shells)
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp peach jam or preserves (optional, for glaze)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and then at least 1 hour to refrigerate the tarts, allowing the filling to set nicely. So, in total, you’ll need roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Filling:
In a medium bowl, take your softened cream cheese and add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This should only take a couple of minutes, so be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed in well.
2. Fill the Tart Shells:
Now it’s time to fill those mini tart shells! You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a clean look. Spoon or pipe the creamy mixture evenly into each shell, filling them up to the top but not overflowing. They should look inviting and delicious!
3. Top with Peaches:
Next, take your finely chopped peaches and add a small spoonful on top of each filled tart shell. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness. If you want, feel free to layer them slightly for a beautiful presentation!
4. Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like to give your tarts a little shine, warm the peach jam in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until it’s easier to spread. Then, gently brush a little of the jam over the peaches. This not only makes them look pretty but enhances the flavor too!
5. Garnish:
For a final touch, garnish each tart with a small mint leaf if you wish. This adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the sweet peaches.
6. Chill and Serve:
Place the tarts in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the filling firm up and allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. Once chilled, they are ready to be enjoyed!
Now, dig in and enjoy your delightful Mini Peach Cream Cheese Tarts! Your guests will love them! 🍑
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Just make sure they are ripe and delicious, and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
How Can I Make These Tarts Gluten-Free?
To make these tarts gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free mini tart shells. You can also make your own crust using almond flour or a gluten-free pie crust recipe.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the tarts on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tarts?
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if you have extras, simply cover them to keep the filling from drying out!
