Small Tarts
Delightful small tarts featuring creamy lemon and vanilla flavors, topped with cherry pie filling. Perfect for elegant gatherings, dessert buffets, or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add eggs to the mixture and blend well.
- Place vanilla wafers at the bottom of each tart shell.
- Top each with 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Allow tarts to cool, then top with cherry pie filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, whip the cream cheese mixture until fluffy before adding the eggs. If you want a different flavor, try substituting the cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry. Additionally, using graham cracker crumbs instead of Keebler vanilla wafers can offer a delightful twist. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time as oven temperatures can vary.
Serving Suggestions
These small tarts make a fantastic dessert for gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a light salad or fruit platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Small Tarts contains roughly 206 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% 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 these tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tarts and bake them a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator. Just add the cherry pie filling right before serving to keep the tarts looking fresh and appealing.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese substitute. Alternatively, blended silken tofu can work as a lighter, healthier alternative, although it may alter the flavor slightly.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, consider pre-baking the tart shells for a few minutes before adding the filling. You can also brush the inside of the shells with a thin layer of melted chocolate or white chocolate to create a barrier that helps keep moisture out.
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).