Baked Cheese Tart Recipe

Baked Cheese Tart Recipe

Baked cheese tarts are a delightful combination of a crisp, buttery tart shell and a creamy, tangy cheese filling. Perfect as a dessert or a snack, these tarts are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Tart Shell:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water (as needed)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 oz mascarpone cheese (or additional cream cheese)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tart Shells:
   1. In a food processor or large bowl, combine flour, butter, and powdered sugar. Pulse or rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   2. Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough comes together. If it’s too dry, add cold water a teaspoon at a time until it forms a cohesive dough.
   3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Shape and Bake the Tart Shells:
   1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into circles and press into tart molds or a muffin tin.
   3. Prick the bottom of each tart shell with a fork to prevent puffing. Line with parchment paper and fill with baking weights or dry beans.
   4. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then bake for another 5 minutes until golden. Let cool.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
   1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, mascarpone, and butter until smooth.
   2. Add sugar and cornstarch, mixing until fully incorporated.
   3. Beat in the egg, followed by heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill and Bake the Tarts:
   1. Spoon the cheese mixture into the cooled tart shells, filling them slightly below the edge.
   2. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
5. Cool and Serve:
   1. Let the tarts cool to room temperature before removing from the molds.
   2. Serve warm or chilled. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh fruit for garnish.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness, pre-bake the tart shells for a few minutes longer if desired.
• If you want a richer flavor, substitute mascarpone cheese with ricotta or cream cheese.
• Store the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

These creamy, tangy, and buttery cheese tarts are irresistibly delicious!