Cream Cheese Nut Tarts
Cream cheese nut tarts offer a rich, creamy filling with crunchy chopped nuts, perfect for elegant gatherings or a delightful treat for nut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the cream cheese and 1 stick of oleo.
- Add 1 cup of flour and mix.
- Form the dough into a ball and chill.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Divide the chilled dough into 24 balls.
- Use each ball to make a tart shell.
- Fill each shell at least halfway with the filling.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the shell is golden brown.
- Check after 20 minutes to prevent overbaking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with mascarpone or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling. If you prefer a sweeter crust, use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar. Make sure to chill the dough adequately, as this will help in forming the tart shells more easily. This recipe can also be adapted with various nuts, such as using chopped almonds or hazelnuts.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese nut tarts are delightful served at room temperature. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. They also make a wonderful accompaniment to coffee or tea. For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve alongside slices of St. Charles Banana Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their crispiness and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Nut Tarts contains roughly 114 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 use a different type of nut in the filling?
Absolutely! While pecans and walnuts are traditional, you can use any nut of your choice such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution in the filling.
How do I know when the tarts are done baking?
The tarts are done when the shell turns a golden brown color and the filling is set. It's a good idea to check them after 20 minutes to prevent overbaking, as ovens can vary.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After forming it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to use, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before shaping into tart shells.
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).