Philadelphia Cream Cheese Tarts
Delicious cream cheese tarts with a flaky pastry crust, perfect for sweet or nutty fillings, ideal for entertaining or a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, sweet butter, and flour, then refrigerate overnight.
- Cut the chilled dough into 2-inch squares.
- Place filling on each square and squeeze the ends together to form a purse shape.
- Bake in a hot oven at 400°F for 12 minutes on an ungreased sheet.
- Serve with apricot or nut filling for added flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have sweet butter, unsalted butter can work with a pinch of sugar added. Experiment with different fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves to suit your taste. Make sure to chill the dough well to ensure the pastries hold their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese tarts are delightful on their own or served alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Cheezie Onion Loaf for a savory-sweet spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Philadelphia Cream Cheese Tarts contains roughly 612 calories, with 15g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just make sure to let it soften slightly at room temperature before rolling out and shaping.
What other fillings can I use?
You can fill these tarts with a variety of options such as fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or even savory fillings like cheese or herbs for a twist. Experiment to find your favorite!
How do I know when the tarts are done baking?
The tarts are done when they are lightly golden on the edges and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly depending on your 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).