Cranberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

Introduction

If you’re looking for an elegant yet easy dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery, these Cranberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are just what you need! Flaky, buttery pastry filled with smooth cream cheese and topped with tangy cranberry sauce—each bite is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and tart flavors.

These tarts are ideal for the holiday season, weekend brunches, or whenever you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes and fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma.

Whether you serve them warm from the oven or chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar, these puff pastry tarts will quickly become a new favorite on your dessert menu.

Ingredients

For the Tarts:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp water

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh rosemary or mint leaves
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut it into 12 equal squares or circles using a cookie cutter or knife.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
   In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   Place the puff pastry pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Using the back of a spoon, gently press the center to create a small well. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each piece, then top with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce.
4. Brush and Bake:
   Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush the edges of the pastry for a golden finish.
   Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
5. Cool and Garnish:
   Let the tarts cool slightly, then garnish with fresh rosemary or mint leaves. Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Tips & Variations

• Swap the cranberry sauce for raspberry or cherry preserves for a fruity twist.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra indulgence.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are not only stunning to look at but also incredibly easy to make. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, they’re the kind of treat that turns ordinary days into something special.