These bite-sized cherry cheesecakes are a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and delicious dessert to whip up. The combination of pre-made puff pastry shells and cherry pie filling is a match made in heaven, and the best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and no need for special equipment, you can create these tasty treats anytime, whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a sweet treat after dinner.
The key to this recipe’s success is store-bought puff pastry – it’s the perfect shortcut to making things easy. Simply fill the pre-made shells with a mixture of cream cheese and cherry pie filling, and bake until golden brown. The result is a rich, creamy cheesecake that’s perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy cherry flavor.
If you’re looking for more easy summer desserts to enjoy, be sure to check out our recipes for mascarpone stuffed strawberries, lemon posset brûlée, or strawberry shortcake in a mason jar. With these simple yet impressive desserts on your repertoire, you’ll be the talk of the town at your next gathering.
How to Make Cream Cheese Puff Pastries
When preparing mini cherry cheesecake desserts, it’s essential to begin by letting dairy ingredients reach room temperature. This allows for smoother mixing and better combination of flavors. Combine cream cheese with vanilla, brown sugar, and white sugar, then add sweetened condensed milk and Cool Whip. As this mixture chills in the refrigerator, preheat your oven according to the puff pastry packaging instructions (as brands may vary). Once the pastry is baked, allow it to cool before filling each shell with a scoop of the chilled creamy mixture. To complete the desserts, top with cherry pie filling and sprinkle cookie crumbs on top. For optimal results, add the filling just prior to serving, as these mini cheesecakes are best consumed fresh. Refrigerate them until serving time to maintain their texture.
Puff Pastry Cherry Tart Variations
While traditional mini cheesecakes can be delightful, this dessert offers a unique twist by using puff pastry cups or serving glasses without pre-made shells. The absence of baking the puff pastry means these individual treats truly qualify as mini cheesecakes. For added variety, feel free to swap out the filling with different pie flavors like apple, blueberry, or peach – they would all pair nicely with the cherries. When it comes to extracts, vanilla is a classic choice that complements the cherries well, but almond or coconut can also be excellent alternatives. If you want to get creative for a summer twist, try adding a splash of orange liqueur for a refreshing change. Finally, a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a touch of elegance, though it’s entirely optional – these fruity cream cheese desserts are certainly delicious on their own.
Which Pastry Shells are Best?
When working with Pepperidge Farm pastry shells, I’ve found that their flavor and structural integrity make them an ideal choice for holding fillings. To prepare the shells, gently lift off the round top section, which can then be easily reattached once the filling is in place. Another trick is to use a fork to carefully remove some of the inner layers of the shell before adding your desired filling. Just be mindful not to apply too much pressure, as this could cause the delicate layers to tear.
How to Serve Mini Cherry Cheesecake Tarts
These bite-sized cheesecakes can be served as is or repurposed as festive gifts. Simply place them on a plate, wrap with cellophane, and add a decorative bow for a thoughtful present. They’re perfect for gifting to friends, neighbors, or teachers. For cherry enthusiasts, consider serving these mini cheesecakes alongside other cherry-based treats like galettes or brownies. They also make excellent contributions to potluck gatherings, where their individual nature will surely spark requests for the recipe. Be prepared for a flood of phone calls the next day as everyone begs for the secret to these unique and delectable desserts. With pre-made puff pastry shells making preparation a breeze, this single-serve dessert is an ideal choice for anyone seeking an easy yet impressive treat.
Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Recipe
Mini Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Pastries
Bella Bucchiotti shares a delightful dessert recipe that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging. Meet the mini cherry cheesecakes, which combine pre-made puff pastry shells and cherry pie filling to create bite-sized treats that are simply irresistible. With just 10 minutes of prep time, 15 minutes of cooking time, and a total of 25 minutes invested, you can enjoy these scrumptious individual cheesecakes in no time. This recipe yields an impressive 9 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Instructions
To start, combine the cream cheese, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it’s smooth, then slowly incorporate the sweetened condensed milk. Once combined, fold in the cool whip and refrigerate the bowl for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to chill and set. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the package of puff pastry bowls. Remove the top of each bowl after baking and fill with the chilled cheesecake mixture. Spoon a small amount of cherry pie filling over the top, followed by a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Alternatively, you can prepare this dessert in mason jars by scooping the cheesecake mixture into the jar, adding a spoonful of cherry pie filling on top, and finishing it off with a layer of graham cracker crumbs. Simply refrigerate until ready to serve.