Name: Peach Thyme Tarts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (thawed); 1 cup shredded Kaltbach Le Cremeux cheese (gruyere, fontina, or brie cheese); 1/3 cup fig preserves; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 4 peaches (sliced); extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling); flaky salt and freshly crushed black pepper; 1 egg (beaten); 1/3 cup honey; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

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When summer rolls around, the abundance of fresh fruit inspires me to create delightful desserts that celebrate the season. A perfect example of this is my Peach Thyme Tarts. As the sun shines brightly, I can almost smell the sweet aroma of ripe peaches mingling with the earthy notes of fresh thyme. It takes me back to those lovely afternoons spent at the local farmers’ market, selecting the juiciest peaches for baking. These tarts are not only simple to make, but they also come together quickly, making them ideal for an impromptu gathering or a cozy family dinner. I love showcasing the vibrant colors and flavors of summer in every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Oven, Baking Sheet

Why This Peach Thyme Tarts Shines

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

One of the reasons the Peach Thyme Tarts stand out is the quality of the ingredients used. By selecting ripe, juicy peaches, you ensure that each tart bursts with flavor. The addition of fresh thyme elevates the taste profile, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the peaches. The combination is truly magical!

Versatility in Serving

These tarts are perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, a casual get-together, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. You can serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream. Their versatility makes them a crowd-pleaser.

Simplicity of Preparation

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, these tarts are relatively easy to make. The frozen puff pastry allows for a flaky, buttery crust without the need for complicated dough-making techniques. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Unforgettable Flavor Profile

The harmonious blend of sweet peaches, savory thyme, and creamy cheese creates a memorable flavor combination that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The flaky crust provides the perfect base, allowing the flavors to shine through while adding a delightful crunch.

Endless Customization

Another reason to love the Peach Thyme Tarts is the endless customization options. You can swap out the cheese for your favorite variety or try different fruits, like nectarines or plums, based on what’s in season. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this recipe throughout the summer, no matter what fruits you have on hand.

Ingredients Required for Peach Thyme Tarts

The perfect Peach Thyme Tarts rely on a few key ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The tartness of the peaches, the aromatic quality of thyme, and the richness of cheese come together in a delightful harmony. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to whip up these delicious treats.

2 sheets frozen puff pastry – These make for a quick and flaky crust, perfect for encasing the flavorful fillings.
1 cup shredded Kaltbach Le Cremeux cheese – This cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
1/3 cup fig preserves – A sweet layer that enhances the overall taste and brings extra moisture.
1/4 cup fresh basil – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the peaches beautifully.
4 peaches – Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor in your tarts.
Extra virgin olive oil – A drizzle adds richness and helps to enhance the flavors.
Flaky salt and freshly crushed black pepper – Seasoning that brings out the natural sweetness of the peaches.
1 egg – Beaten, for brushing on the pastry to achieve a golden color.
1/3 cup honey – Drizzled on top, this gives a lovely sweetness to finish the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves – The star herb that ties all the flavors together.

How to Cook Peach Thyme Tarts

Making Peach Thyme Tarts is a straightforward process that brings the flavors of summer to your table. Follow these steps to create your own delicious tarts that are sure to impress!

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Unroll the frozen puff pastry sheets and cut each one into six rectangles. This will give you the perfect size for individual tarts.
Spread about 1 teaspoon of fig preserves on each pastry rectangle, leaving about a 1/4 inch border around the edges. This sweet layer will provide moisture and flavor.
Sprinkle the shredded Kaltbach Le Cremeux cheese evenly over the fig preserves. You want each tart to be well-covered with cheese for that creamy goodness.
Chop the fresh basil and sprinkle it over the cheese. The basil will add an aromatic freshness that balances the sweetness of the peaches.
Slice the peaches and arrange them on top of the cheese and basil. Press the peach slices gently into the cheese to help them stick during baking.
Drizzle a little bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top of each tart, and season with flaky salt and freshly crushed black pepper to taste. This will elevate the flavors of the ingredients.
Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry inward to enclose the filling. This will create a beautiful border around your tarts.
Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. This will give the tarts a lovely golden color once baked.
Transfer the tarts to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and drizzle some honey over the top along with freshly chopped thyme leaves. This step adds a sweet finishing touch.
Serve the tarts warm and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Puff Pastry: To ensure your puff pastry rises well, make sure it is fully thawed before using.
Peach Selection: Choose peaches that are slightly firm but slightly give when gently squeezed for the best results.
Serving Temperature: These tarts are delightful warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any gathering.
Cheese Options: While Kaltbach Le Cremeux is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other creamy cheeses like brie or fontina.
Thyme Freshness: Using fresh thyme leaves will enhance the flavor far more than dried thyme.
Baking Sheet Lining: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will ensure that the tarts do not stick and will make for an easier cleanup.

Making Adjustments

Making adjustments to your Peach Thyme Tarts can help you personalize the dish to your taste. Here are some suggestions for enhancing or modifying the recipe:

Storage: Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked tarts for up to a month. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Pairing: These tarts pair beautifully with a light salad or can serve as a stunning appetizer at a summer gathering.
Fruit Variations: Try using other seasonal fruits like nectarines or cherries for a different flavor profile.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy note that complements the fruit beautifully.

Serving Ideas for Peach Thyme Tarts

When it comes to serving Peach Thyme Tarts, the options are vast and exciting. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Warm with Ice Cream: Serve the tarts warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Drizzle of Honey: A drizzle of honey on top just before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness.
Garnish: Fresh thyme leaves or basil can be used as a garnish to add visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
Picnic Perfect: These tarts are great for picnics; pack them in a basket with your favorite refreshing drinks.
Elegant Appetizer: Cut the tarts into smaller squares and serve as a sophisticated appetizer at brunch or cocktail parties.
Seasonal Variations: Depending on the season, try incorporating other fruits or herbs to keep the tarts exciting and fresh.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen peaches for your Peach Thyme Tarts. However, it’s important to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before using them. Frozen peaches can be just as delicious as fresh ones, especially if fresh peaches are out of season. Just make sure they are well-drained to prevent sogginess in your tarts.

Peach Thyme Tarts are versatile and can be served in various ways. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A light salad on the side can complement the sweetness of the tarts beautifully. You can also serve them as an appetizer for gatherings, cut into smaller squares. For a more sophisticated touch, drizzle some honey over the tarts just before serving.

You can prepare the Peach Thyme Tarts ahead of time by assembling them and keeping them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. It’s recommended to bake them fresh for the best texture, but if you need to prepare them in advance, you can store them unbaked for a few hours. Just make sure to cover them to prevent the pastry from drying out.

There are numerous ways to customize your Peach Thyme Tarts. You can swap out the peaches for other fruits such as nectarines, plums, or even berries, depending on the season. Additionally, try experimenting with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for unique flavor combinations. Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts can also bring in a nice crunch and depth of flavor!

Conclusion

The Peach Thyme Tarts bring together the essence of summer in every bite. They’re not just easy to make; they also celebrate the vibrant flavors of fresh peaches and the delightful aroma of thyme. I encourage you to give this recipe a try at your next gathering or even for a quiet night at home. You won’t be disappointed!