Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

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Juicy plums, creamy cheese, and flaky golden pastry come together in this stunningly simple yet elegant treat. Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are a sweet-and-savory delight that look bakery-worthy but are surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re hosting brunch, need a light dessert, or want to impress with minimal effort, these tarts hit all the right notes.

The magic lies in the balance: the tartness of ripe plums contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese filling, all nestled on a buttery puff pastry base. Finished with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, they can lean sweet or savory, making them a versatile favorite for any occasion.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sharp knife or mandoline: Essential for slicing plums evenly so they cook uniformly and present beautifully.
• Mixing bowl & spatula: Needed for creating the creamy cheese filling with smooth consistency.
• Baking sheet & parchment paper: To ensure your pastry bakes evenly without sticking or burning on the bottom.
• Pastry brush: Helps apply egg wash for that gorgeous golden crust.
• Cooling rack: Allows air to circulate beneath the tart once baked, keeping the bottom crisp.

Each of these tools plays a small but significant role in creating tarts that are visually appealing and deliciously textured. With a bit of prep and the right gear, you’re well on your way to pastry perfection.

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Ingredients for the Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, balancing flavor and texture beautifully:

• Puff Pastry Sheets: The crisp, flaky foundation that holds everything together. Pre-rolled frozen puff pastry works perfectly.
• Fresh Plums: Their tart juiciness caramelizes beautifully in the oven and cuts through the richness of the cheese.
• Cream Cheese: Smooth and tangy, it creates a luscious base layer for the tarts.
• Powdered Sugar (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness to the cheese layer.
• Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavor of the cheese filling with aromatic warmth.
• Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on the pastry edges to enhance golden, bakery-style crispness.
• Fresh Thyme or Microgreens (optional): A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and herbal contrast.

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How To Make the Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions, then cut into even squares or rectangles. Score a smaller square inside each piece (without cutting through), leaving a border to help the edges puff.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread a tablespoon of the mixture inside each scored area of the pastry squares.

Step 3: Slice and Add the Plums

Cut the plums into thin, even slices. Lay 2–3 slices over the cheese filling in each pastry square. Don’t overload—less is more to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Beat one egg and brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden and the plums have softened slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the tarts cool slightly on a wire rack. Garnish with thyme, microgreens, or a light drizzle of honey for extra flair.

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How to Serve and Store These Tarts

These Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are best served slightly warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for brunch spreads, afternoon tea, or dessert platters. Pair them with a light herbal tea or a sparkling beverage for an elegant touch.

If you’re making them ahead, store the cooled tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may turn the pastry soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits instead of plums?

Absolutely! Peaches, nectarines, or figs also work beautifully with the cream cheese base. Just make sure to slice them thinly.

Do I have to use powdered sugar in the filling?

No, the sugar is optional. If you prefer a more savory tart, skip it and let the plums shine on their own.

Can I freeze these tarts?

They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them after baking. Reheat in the oven until warmed through and crispy.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme or microgreens?

You can use mint, basil, or even a tiny dash of cinnamon sugar instead—get creative with what’s on hand.

Can I make mini versions?

Yes! Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized treats. Just reduce baking time to 12–15 minutes.

Is it okay to use whipped cream cheese?

Yes, whipped cream cheese will work too, but regular block cream cheese holds up better during baking and gives a creamier texture.

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Want More Tart Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts, here are some other creative bites you might enjoy from Life With Olivia:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a hearty, savory main.
• Traditional German Lebkuchen if you want to add a spiced, old-world cookie to your table.
• Paula Deen’s 5 Minute Fudge when you need a quick chocolate fix.
• Apple Enchiladas for another sweet-meets-satisfying handheld dessert.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a fruit-and-cream indulgence.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you keep it simple or go gourmet with toppings? Did you try swapping the plums for another fruit?

I love hearing your variations and ideas. Questions welcome—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen.

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