Cheese Apricot Tarts
Cheese apricot tarts combine savory cheese with sweet dried apricots in a delicate pastry, perfect for elegant appetizers or tea-time treats that delight with contrasting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil apricots in water until tender.
- Chop apricots finely and mix with sugar.
- Melt margarine and mix with grated cheese.
- Add flour, salt, and red pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
- Remove cheese dough from refrigerator, form into orange-sized balls, and microwave for 5 to 10 seconds.
- Place each ball between two sheets of wax paper and roll thin.
- Remove the top sheet and cut the dough into 1-inch squares.
- Lift each square with a knife and put a small amount of apricot mixture in the center.
- Fold over two opposite edges to form a diamond shape.
- Bake at 225°F until slightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using a blend of sharp cheese and cream cheese. If you prefer a sweeter touch, add a pinch of cinnamon to the apricot mixture. Instead of microwave melting, you can gently heat the margarine on the stove. If you don't have wax paper, parchment paper works well for rolling out the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These tarts make a delightful appetizer or snack. Serve them warm alongside a fresh salad or with a cup of Irish Chocolate Mint Coffee for a unique twist. They also pair beautifully with a charcuterie board, complementing savory flavors with their sweet apricot filling.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheese Apricot Tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 200°F for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. This maintains their texture better than microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Apricot Tarts contains roughly 266 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh apricots, but you will need to cook them down to achieve a similar consistency as dried ones. Fresh apricots may also require more sugar due to their tartness, so taste and adjust accordingly.
What can I substitute for margarine?
Butter is a perfect substitute for margarine in this recipe, offering a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute will also work well. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
How can I make these tarts spicier?
To give your Cheese Apricot Tarts an added kick, increase the amount of red pepper in the dough. Alternatively, you could incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the apricot mixture for an exciting flavor boost.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).