Description
Delightful mini cream cheese fruit tarts invite sweet lovers into a world of creamy indulgence and fresh seasonal charm. Elegant pastry shells cradle silky cream cheese filling, crowned with jewel-like fruit that promises a perfect balance of tangy and sweet in each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Tart Shells:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 pinch salt
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Fruit Topping:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl, creating a smooth, even dry mixture.
- Cut cold butter into small cubes and incorporate into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumbly dough into mini tart molds, ensuring an even layer across the bottom and sides, then refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and blind bake the tart shells for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, then remove and cool completely.
- Whip cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy, gradually adding granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and fluffy filling.
- Pipe or spoon the cream cheese mixture into the cooled tart shells, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Wash and slice berries, then toss with honey and lemon juice to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Arrange the macerated berries artfully on top of the cream cheese filling.
- Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds around the fruit for added texture and visual appeal.
- Chill the tarts for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Notes
- Chill the butter and flour mixture thoroughly to achieve a flakier, more tender crust that melts in your mouth.
- Experiment with different fruit combinations like kiwi, mango, or peaches to create unique flavor profiles and colorful presentations.
- Use gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful mini tarts without compromise.
- Toast the sliced almonds briefly to intensify their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the dessert’s texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg