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As summer approaches and ripe peaches flood the markets, I can’t help but think of the delightful way they pair with creamy, spiced indulgence. Picture this: golden puff pastry tarts emerging from the oven, their flaky layers hugging a luscious cream cheese filling and juicy peach slices, all lightly dusted with sugar. It’s like a harmonious chorus of flavors and textures that perfectly captures the essence of summer!

I created these Easy Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts on a lazy afternoon, inspired by the abundance of fresh fruit in my kitchen. They are a breeze to whip up, and the best part? They’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering, be it a sunny barbecue or a cozy family dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll find yourself savoring each bite of this stunningly simple dessert that dreams of lazy summer days and sweet moments spent with loved ones. So, let’s dive in and make something delicious that celebrates the season!

Why are Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts irresistible?

Easy preparation: You don’t need to be a pastry chef to create these tarts; they are perfect for cooks of any skill level.
Delightful blend of flavors: Sweet peaches meet creamy cinnamon-infused cheese for a taste that sings summer.
Stunning presentation: Golden, flaky pastry topped with juicy fruit makes an eye-catching treat for gatherings.
Versatile treat: Try using different fruits or flavored creams for a unique twist each time!
Perfect for any occasion: These tarts shine as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast indulgence, delighting everyone who tastes them.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of time for a speedy assembly when guests arrive—an advantage your busy self will appreciate!

Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts Ingredients

For the Tarts
• Ripe Peaches – Fresh, juicy peaches are essential for natural sweetness; use only ripe for the best flavor!
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the peach mixture; feel free to adjust based on the peach sweetness.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the peach filling, preventing any sogginess in your tarts.
• Jus-Rol Puff Pastry – A convenient, flaky base that is easy to work with; make sure it’s completely thawed.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Use full-fat for a rich and creamy texture; low-fat is an option if you prefer.
• Granulated Sugar (for cream cheese) – Sweetens the cream mixture to balance out the flavors.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic spice that enhances the peach flavor wonderfully.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla elevates the cream cheese mixture, adding depth to the taste.

For Finishing Touches
• Egg (for egg wash) – Gives your pastry a beautiful, golden-brown finish when brushed on before baking.
• Raw Sugar (turbinado) – Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunchy texture; omit if you’re out!
• Powdered Sugar – Perfect for making a sweet icing to drizzle over your tarts.
• Milk (for icing) – Any milk works to achieve the desired icing consistency.

These Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts will quickly become your go-to summer dessert, combining fresh ingredients and easy preparation!

How to Make Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for achieving the perfect flaky puff pastry that will become golden and crisp as it bakes.
Slice the ripe peaches into thin wedges, then mix them in a bowl with cornstarch and granulated sugar. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld and the sugar to draw out the peach juices.
Whisk together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy mixture will create a delightful contrast to the juicy peaches, so make sure it’s evenly blended.
Roll out the Jus-Rol puff pastry on a piece of parchment paper. Cut into 8 squares, then carefully score a rectangle in the center of each to create a border—this step will help the edges puff beautifully during baking!
Spread the cream cheese mixture inside the scored rectangle on each tart. Be generous, leaving just enough space at the edges for the pastry to rise.
Top each tart with the sliced peaches, arranging them attractively for a lovely presentation. The vibrant color of the peaches will shine through after baking!
Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash for a glossy finish, then sprinkle with raw sugar to add a delightful crunch and sweetness on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffy. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overbake!
Cool the tarts for about 10 minutes on a cooling rack, then drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and milk to elevate this sweet treat.

Optional: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts?

Ready to elevate your dessert experience? These delightful tarts deserve companions that enhance their fresh flavors and creamy textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cool contrast—perfectly balancing the warm tarts’ gooey filling and flaky pastry.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Bright and refreshing, adding a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness of the peaches while enhancing the visual appeal.
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty effervescence cuts through the creaminess, refreshing the palate and making your gathering feel even sunnier.
Crushed Pecans: Adding a bit of crunch, they introduce a nutty element that beautifully contrasts the soft textures of the cream cheese and peaches.
Lemon Zest Drizzle: A tart and tangy glaze that brightens the flavors of the tarts and adds a lovely decorative touch.

Elevate your dessert to a feast by mixing textures and flavors that dance together harmoniously, making every bite a celebration of summer.

Make Ahead Options

These Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to 3 days in advance; just make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, slice your peaches and toss them with sugar and cornstarch; they can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the tarts by rolling out the thawed puff pastry, filling it with the cream cheese mixture, and layering on the peaches. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with raw sugar just before popping them into the oven for restaurant-quality results that are just as delicious as if made fresh!

Peaches and Cream Variations

Feel free to let your creativity reign by customizing these delightful tarts to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Other Fruits: Swap peaches for nectarines, plums, or cherries for unique flavor combinations. Each fruit brings its own sweetness and tang, creating endless possibilities.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the cream cheese mixture for a delightful crunch. The added texture will elevate the overall experience and provide a satisfying bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocoholics, drizzle melted chocolate over the tarts before serving. The combination of chocolate with creamy peaches is simply irresistible!
Herb Infusion: Add a hint of fresh basil or mint to the peach mixture for a refreshing twist. The herbal notes will surprise and delight your palate, making the tarts feel gourmet.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the cream cheese for a surprising heat component. This is a fun way to play with sweet and savory elements.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep the recipe vegan-friendly. Plant-based options deliver creamy results without compromising flavor.
Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavors by incorporating lemon zest into the cream cheese filling. It adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peaches.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce before baking for decadently sweet tarts. The luscious caramel will melt into the cream cheese and peaches, creating a divine treat to savor.

Storage Tips for Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts

Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: These tarts can be refrigerated to extend freshness, but note that the pastry may lose some of its delightful flakiness after a day.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tarts wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To revive the freshness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, allowing the pastry to regain its crispness and warmth. Enjoy your Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts!

Expert Tips for Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts

Perfect Peaches: Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor; avoid canned or frozen as they might make the pastry soggy.
Cream Cheese Consistency: Soften the cream cheese first, either by leaving it at room temperature or giving it a quick microwave spin of 15-20 seconds for easy mixing.
Avoid Sogginess: Use cornstarch to bind the peach juices, so your tarts stay crispy and flaky without saturating the pastry.
Thick or Thin Icing: For the icing drizzle, adjust powdered sugar for thickness or add milk for a thinner consistency—find the balance that you like best!
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your tarts while they bake; they should turn golden-brown and puff up beautifully, typically in 15-17 minutes.

Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts Recipe FAQs

What kind of peaches should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, use fresh, ripe peaches. When selecting them, look for fruits that are slightly soft to the touch and free from dark spots or bruises. Avoid canned or frozen varieties, which can leak juices and make your tarts soggy.

How should I store leftovers of the peach tarts?
Store your Peaches and Cream Puff Pastry Tarts in a tightly sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you choose to refrigerate them, just keep in mind that the pastry might lose some of its flakiness over time.

Can I freeze these peach tarts?
Very! To freeze, wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my tarts come out soggy?
If you find that your tarts are soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture from the peaches. To remedy this, ensure you mix the peaches with cornstarch and sugar before filling the pastries, which helps absorb some of the juices. Baking them until golden also helps prevent sogginess, so keep an eye on them during that final bake!

Are these tarts suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While these tarts are a delightful treat, if you have allergies, be cautious! The puff pastry contains gluten, and the cream cheese is a dairy product. For a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free puff pastry substitute available at some grocery stores. If you’re avoiding dairy, you could experiment with plant-based cream cheese alternatives.

Is there a way to make these tarts ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling in advance—just store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When it’s time to serve, simply assemble and bake the tarts. This will ensure that your dessert remains fresh and flaky while saving you time!