Cheese Savory Tarts
Cheese savory tarts feature a crisp pastry base filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, lightly seasoned with paprika and mustard, perfect as an appetizer or snack for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line patty tins with short crust pastry, as for jam tarts.
- Grate the tasty cheese into a saucepan and add salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
- Add the egg yolk to the cheese mixture and stir slowly over gentle heat until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Whisk the egg white until stiff, then fold into the cheese mixture.
- Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared pastry cases.
- Bake in the oven at gas mark 6 or 7 until the cheese mixture is well browned and resembles small soufflés.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Gruyère. If you don't have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can work as a substitute. Ensure the cheese mixture cools slightly before folding in the egg whites to maintain their volume. If your pastry is too crumbly, add a splash of cold water to bring it together.
Serving Suggestions
These savory tarts make a delightful appetizer or light lunch, and they pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or a bowl of soup. Consider serving them alongside a yogurt parfait for a refreshing contrast. They are also great for parties or picnics, served at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry from getting soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Savory Tarts contains roughly 5 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 make the pastry from scratch?
Absolutely! Making short crust pastry from scratch allows you to customize the flavor and texture. Combine flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, then add cold water gradually until it comes together. Chill for 30 minutes before using.
What can I use instead of tasty cheese?
You can substitute tasty cheese with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sharper taste, aged cheddar is also a great alternative.
Can I freeze the cheese tarts?
Yes, these cheese tarts freeze well. To freeze, cool them completely, then wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
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).