Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

Save this recipe on:

I’ve always been a sucker for sweet-and-savory combinations, and these Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts hit that exact spot with almost unfair precision. Picture this: buttery, golden puff pastry cradling a layer of creamy cheese filling, topped with glossy slices of ripe plums, all finished with a drizzle of honey and a few mint leaves for freshness. It’s simple, elegant, and just fancy enough to impress anyone you serve it to—without actually taking much effort.

What I love about this tart is how it brings together contrasting textures and flavors in such a satisfying way. The pastry is flaky, the filling smooth and lightly tangy, and the plums add a subtle tart-sweet note that rounds everything out. It’s perfect for brunch, a light dessert, or a beautiful addition to a holiday table. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen.

---

Why You’ll Love This Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tart

This tart is equal parts effortless and luxurious. It looks like something from a French patisserie but comes together with only a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand. The contrast between the flaky crust and creamy filling is divine, and the fresh plums add just the right amount of brightness. It’s perfect for entertaining, but easy enough for a midweek treat.

---

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

I recommend using all-butter puff pastry if you can find it—it gives the best flavor and flakiest texture. You can use either pre-rolled sheets or roll out a block yourself to about 1/8 inch thick. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions if it’s frozen, and always keep it cold until ready to bake to ensure those gorgeous layers puff up beautifully.

---

Options for Substitutions

• Fruit: If plums aren’t in season, try apricots, nectarines, or thinly sliced pears. Just avoid overly juicy fruits that could make the tart soggy.
• Cheese Base: Swap the cream cheese for mascarpone, ricotta, or even a soft goat cheese for more tang.
• Sweetener: A drizzle of maple syrup or agave can replace honey. Or skip the sweetener entirely for a more savory twist.
• Herbs: Mint is refreshing, but fresh thyme or basil also pairs wonderfully with stone fruits and cheese.

---

Ingredients for this Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tart

• Puff Pastry: The flaky, buttery foundation of the tart. Pre-made puff pastry makes this recipe fast and foolproof.
• Cream Cheese: Acts as the creamy base layer. It adds richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
• Powdered Sugar: Lightly sweetens the cheese mixture without making it overly sugary.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer with a warm, aromatic note.
• Fresh Plums: Provide a burst of tart-sweet flavor and beautiful color contrast on top.
• Honey: Adds a glossy finish and floral sweetness that ties the tart together.
• Egg (for egg wash): Helps the puff pastry edges turn golden brown and beautifully crisp.
• Fresh Mint Leaves (optional): For garnish and a hint of herbal freshness.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your serving size preference. Score a border about 1/2 inch from the edges to allow the crust to puff up around the filling. Transfer the pastry squares to the prepared baking sheet and chill in the fridge while you prep the filling.

---

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The filling should be soft enough to spread easily, but not runny.

---

Step 3: Slice the Plums

Wash and dry the plums thoroughly. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and slice into thin wedges. Uniform slices ensure even baking and a clean presentation.

---

Step 4: Assemble the Tarts

Remove the chilled pastry from the fridge. Spoon a generous dollop of the cheese mixture into the center of each square, spreading it within the scored border. Layer 3-4 plum slices on top in a fan or spiral pattern. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg to promote a golden finish.

---

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the edges are crisp. The fruit should be tender, and the cheese filling slightly set.

---

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the tarts cool slightly on a wire rack. Drizzle with honey while still warm and garnish with fresh mint leaves just before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

---

How Long to Prepare the Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tart

Prep Time: The total prep time is about 15–20 minutes. That includes rolling and scoring the puff pastry, mixing the cheese filling, and slicing the plums. If you’re using pre-sliced plums or already softened cream cheese, you can shave off a few minutes.

Bake Time: The tarts bake in the oven for around 18–22 minutes. During this time, the puff pastry becomes golden and crisp, and the filling sets perfectly. Cooling time is minimal, so you can serve them warm shortly after baking.

---

Tips for Perfect Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

• Keep the puff pastry cold until baking. This helps it puff up properly and become crisp.
• Score the edges of the tart before adding the filling to get that lovely raised crust border.
• Don’t overload the tart with fruit; a few neatly layered slices look and bake better.
• Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Drizzle honey only after baking—this keeps the tart glossy and prevents sogginess.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using warm pastry: Puff pastry that’s too soft will not puff well. Always chill it if it gets too warm.
• Overbaking: The plums can dry out and the pastry can burn if left too long. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes.
• Undercooked center: Make sure your tart is fully baked in the center by checking the bottom of the pastry.
• Watery fruit: Overripe or too-juicy fruit can leak moisture and make the tart soggy.
• Skipping the border score: If you don’t score a border, the pastry may not rise properly around the edges.

---

What to Serve With Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts?

1. A Glass of Sparkling Wine

The crisp bubbles balance the creamy cheese and sweet plum topping perfectly.

2. Herbal Tea

Try a light mint or chamomile tea for a calming pairing, especially if serving the tart as a dessert.

3. Greek Yogurt with Honey

For a brunch spread, add a bowl of thick yogurt drizzled with honey and sprinkled with nuts.

4. Arugula Salad

A simple salad with peppery greens, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan complements the richness of the tart.

5. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For dessert, serve the tart slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—it’s divine.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The puff pastry will lose some of its crispness but still taste delicious.

Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it will soften the pastry.

Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked tarts for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time. Avoid freezing baked tarts, as the plum topping can turn mushy.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Tart)

• Calories: 280–320 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugars: 10g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Cholesterol: 45mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent soggy pastry?

Keep the fruit slices thin, avoid overly ripe plums, and bake on parchment to help wick away moisture.

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the tarts and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking.

What other fruits work well in this tart?

Apricots, nectarines, figs, or thinly sliced apples or pears are all fantastic alternatives.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free puff pastry and swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative.

Do I need to peel the plums?

No need. The peel adds color and holds the fruit together while baking.

---

Conclusion

Plum & Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are the kind of treat that makes you feel like a pastry chef in your own kitchen—without the stress. The flaky crust, creamy filling, and fresh fruit topping come together in a way that’s balanced, beautiful, and seriously satisfying. Whether you’re hosting brunch, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers elegance and flavor in every bite.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: