Pastry Tarts
Delicious pastry tarts with a creamy cheese filling and flaky crust, perfect for appetizers or snacks, appealing to cheese lovers and those craving savory bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese and margarine until light and fluffy.
- Combine the mixture with plain flour.
- Shape the dough into small balls and press into small cupcake pans.
- Bake at 350°F or 375°F for 6 to 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using softened butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cream cheese. Ensure your dough is not overworked to maintain its flakiness. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. If you're short on time, pre-made pastry can be used as a substitute for homemade dough.
Serving Suggestions
These pastry tarts are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with fresh fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. They also make a great addition to dessert tables alongside favorites like Our Family Birthday Cake or Quindim(Brazil).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer them crispy, consider broiling them for a minute or two, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastry Tarts contains roughly 367 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 freeze these pastry tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked tarts for up to a month. Just shape the dough into cups in the pans, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What can I fill the tarts with?
You can fill these tarts with a variety of fillings such as fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even a cream cheese mixture. For a tropical twist, consider filling them with coconut cream or pairing them with flavors reminiscent of Flan Pnertoriqueno.
How do I know when the tarts are done baking?
The tarts are done when the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. You can also gently press the center; it should feel firm but not hard. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
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).