Flaky Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts with Herb Cream Cheese: Your Perfect Summer Appetizer
Experience the delightful fusion of crisp, buttery puff pastry and the vibrant sweetness of fresh, ripe tomatoes in these exquisite Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts. Each tart is a masterpiece, featuring a delicate crust generously topped with a rich, smooth herb cream cheese spread and a colorful medley of plump tomatoes. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated summer gathering or simply craving a light, flavorful meal, these easy-to-make tarts are guaranteed to impress and leave everyone longing for more. Their stunning visual appeal and irresistible taste make them an essential addition to any seasonal menu.
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About These Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts
These savory tomato puff pastry tarts are an exquisite celebration of summer’s bounty, perfectly showcasing the juicy, sun-ripened flavors of fresh tomatoes – yes, botanically a fruit! While puff pastry is often associated with sweet treats like Nutella puff pastry pies, its delicate, airy layers provide an equally fantastic foundation for savory applications. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into an elegant appetizer or a light, satisfying meal.
Here are just a few reasons why these charming savory tarts will quickly become a favorite:
- Irresistibly Buttery and Flaky Crust: The foundation of each tart is a delicate, golden-brown puff pastry, baked to a beautiful crispness. Its rich, buttery flavor and ethereal flakiness provide the perfect contrast to the creamy topping and juicy tomatoes.
- Bursting with Fresh Tomato Flavor: Ripe, succulent tomatoes are undoubtedly the star of the show. When combined with aromatic fresh herbs, their natural sweetness is elevated. As they bake, their juices concentrate, intensifying their flavor and creating a truly sensational experience with every bite.
- Remarkable Versatility: These tarts are incredibly adaptable to your culinary preferences. Not only can you customize the blend of fresh herbs in the creamy cheese base, but you can also experiment with a wide array of tomato varieties, allowing for endless flavor combinations.
- Visually Stunning Presentation: The vibrant red hues of the tomatoes, set against the golden-brown crust and dotted with fresh green basil, create an absolutely gorgeous appetizer. They are an ideal choice for a summer garden party, a festive brunch, or even served as a sophisticated light lunch when accompanied by a crisp, refreshing salad.
Each bite of a puff pastry tomato tart delivers the quintessential taste of summer. I particularly enjoy using a mix of tomato varieties, as it beautifully highlights the diverse flavors, textures, and colors that tomatoes offer. In my recipe, I’ve featured a combination of tomatoes on the vine, hothouse tomatoes, and sweet cherry tomatoes. However, feel free to use your absolute favorite kind – whether it’s a single beloved variety or an exciting medley – the results will be equally delicious!
Essential Ingredients for Tomato Tarts
Crafting these delectable tomato tarts requires a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- Puff Pastry: The magic of puff pastry lies in its many thin layers of butter folded into dough, which expand dramatically when baked to create a light, incredibly crispy, and airy texture. For convenience, I typically opt for store-bought puff pastry, usually found in the freezer section of your grocery store near desserts or bread doughs, often in packs of two sheets – precisely what this recipe calls for. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and have the time, creating your own homemade puff pastry can be a rewarding culinary experience!
- Egg: A single large egg, beaten with a touch of water, forms the egg wash. This is brushed around the edges of the pastry rectangles before baking, contributing to a beautiful golden-brown color and an appealing glossy finish.
- Cream Cheese: Choose your favorite brand of cream cheese. I prefer using full-fat for its rich, creamy texture and superior flavor, but a light cream cheese can be substituted if you’re looking for a slightly less indulgent option. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Fresh Herbs: The herb cream cheese filling is beautifully flavored with a fragrant combination of fresh thyme and basil leaves. This blend adds an aromatic depth that perfectly complements the tomatoes. Feel free to customize this by incorporating other fresh herbs like rosemary (use sparingly as it’s quite potent), tarragon, oregano, or parsley, depending on your taste preferences. Remember to save some extra fresh basil leaves for garnishing the finished tarts!
- Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for a savory kick. For ultimate convenience, I always keep a jar of pre-minced garlic in my fridge, eliminating the need for peeling and chopping and keeping my hands odor-free – a shortcut I highly recommend!
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but critical. Opt for kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance and balance all the flavors in the tart.
- Tomatoes: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to tomatoes. You can use any type you prefer! My images showcase a delightful mix of hothouse tomatoes, tomatoes on the vine, and sweet cherry tomatoes. Other fantastic options include vibrant heirloom tomatoes, unique green tomatoes, cheerful yellow tomatoes, smaller grape tomatoes, or robust beefsteak tomatoes. Variety adds both flavor complexity and visual appeal.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended as a final topping. Its salty, nutty notes complete the savory profile of these tarts.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, gather these essential kitchen tools:
- Rolling Pin: A good rolling pin (a marble one is excellent for keeping dough cool) is necessary to lightly roll out and even out your thawed puff pastry sheets.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl, ideally from a versatile set of mixing bowls, for preparing the herb cream cheese mixture.
- Electric Hand Mixer: This tool is perfect for effortlessly beating the cream cheese and herbs until they achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment also works wonderfully.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for cleanly slicing your tomatoes and precisely scoring the puff pastry.
- Silicone Brush: For evenly applying the egg wash to the edges of your tarts, a silicone pastry brush is the most effective and mess-free tool.
- Baking Sheets: You’ll need a sturdy, rimmed half-sheet baking pan to bake the tarts.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup, always line your baking sheet with either parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat.
Baking Essentials
half sheet baking pan
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chef’s knife
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cutting board
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How to Make Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts: Step-by-Step
Preparing the Puff Pastry Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a rimmed baking sheet with either parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Carefully unroll your thawed puff pastry sheets. Use a rolling pin to gently roll each sheet out slightly, just enough to ensure even thickness, aiming for approximately 1/8-inch. This step helps to achieve a consistently flaky crust. Next, using a sharp knife, cut each pastry sheet into four equal rectangles, giving you a total of eight individual tart bases.
Now, to create that distinctive puffy border, use the tip of your knife to carefully score a 1/2-inch border around the edge of each pastry rectangle. The key here is to score *without* cutting all the way through the dough. This border will puff up beautifully, creating a golden frame for your filling. For the center part of each pastry, lightly prick it several times with a fork. This prevents the center from puffing up excessively and ensures it stays relatively flat to hold the creamy filling and tomatoes. Place the prepared pastry pieces onto your lined baking sheet and set them aside.
Crafting the Herb Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending), fresh chopped thyme, fresh chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Using an electric hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining, ensuring a luxurious base for your tomatoes.
Assembling Your Tarts
Now it’s time to bring your tarts to life! Take a spoonful of the herb cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly across the center of each puff pastry rectangle, making sure to stay within the scored border. This ensures that the edges can puff up properly without being weighed down by the filling. Next, arrange your tomato slices or halved tomatoes artfully over the cream cheese. If using larger tomatoes, slice them about 1/4-inch thick. For smaller cherry or grape tomatoes, simply cut them in half.
In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water to create the egg wash. Using a silicone brush, carefully brush this mixture onto the scored edges of each pastry. This egg wash is key to achieving that beautiful golden-brown, crispy crust.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Carefully transfer the baking sheet with your assembled tarts to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. You’ll know they’re ready when the puff pastry edges are beautifully golden brown and have puffed up significantly, and the tomatoes appear slightly softened and roasted. Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
For a final touch of freshness and flavor, garnish the warm tarts with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately to best enjoy their flaky crust and warm, savory filling.
Pro Tip: Be sure to give your frozen puff pastry enough time to thaw! It typically takes about 30-40 minutes at room temperature, or a few hours in the refrigerator. Properly thawed pastry is much easier to roll and cut without tearing.
Top Tips for Perfect Tomato Tarts
Achieving perfectly crisp and delicious tomato tarts is easy with these helpful tips:
- Slice Tomatoes Evenly: Consistency is key! Ensure your tomatoes are sliced into uniform 1/4-inch thickness (or halved if using small varieties). This guarantees that they cook evenly, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are perfectly tender.
- Drain Excess Tomato Moisture: Tomatoes contain a lot of water. For exceptionally juicy varieties, consider gently salting the sliced tomatoes and letting them sit on paper towels for about 10-15 minutes before assembling. This draws out excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy pastry crust and concentrates the tomato flavor. Pat them dry thoroughly before placing on the cream cheese.
- Line the Pan for Non-Stick Success: Always line your baking sheet with either parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat. This crucial step ensures that your delicate tarts do not stick to the pan, making for easy removal and cleanup. If you don’t have these, a light spray of cooking oil can work, but parchment or silicone is preferred for puff pastry.
- Keep Puff Pastry Cold: Puff pastry is best handled when cold. Work quickly when rolling and cutting to prevent the butter layers from melting, which can compromise the pastry’s ability to puff up flaky and high. If the dough becomes too soft, pop it back into the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to chill before continuing.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For a smooth and easily spreadable herb cream cheese mixture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This will prevent lumps and make the blending process much simpler.
More tasty tomato recipes to try: Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad | Tomato Peach Bruschetta | Quick Cherry Tomato Confit | Instant Pot Tomato Soup
Can I Make a Large Tomato Puff Pastry Tart?
Absolutely! If you prefer a single, grand statement piece over individual tarts, this recipe can easily be adapted. Instead of cutting the puff pastry sheets into smaller rectangles, leave them whole. You can even gently press two sheets together along one edge to create an extra-large tart if desired. Proceed to create the same 1/2-inch scored border around the entire perimeter of the large pastry sheet, just as instructed for the smaller tarts, making sure not to cut all the way through. Lightly prick the center area with a fork.
Follow the remaining instructions for preparing the herb cream cheese mixture and arranging the tomatoes. Spread the creamy filling evenly over the large center area, then top with your favorite tomato slices or halves. Brush the egg wash around the scored edges. When baking, you might need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time (up to 25-30 minutes total) to ensure the larger tart is thoroughly cooked, golden brown, and puffed. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-browning. Once baked, garnish as desired with fresh basil and Parmesan, then slice and serve for an impressive presentation.
Serving Suggestions: Hot or Cold?
These tomato puff pastry tarts are truly at their best when served warm, straight out of the oven. The warmth enhances the buttery flakiness of the pastry, and the heat brings out the concentrated sweetness of the baked tomatoes and the aromatic notes of the herbs in the cream cheese. The subtle crispness of the crust and the tender texture of the tomatoes are most pronounced when enjoyed warm.
However, if you’re preparing them for a casual gathering or a picnic, they are also wonderfully enjoyable at room temperature. While they might lose a tiny bit of that initial crispness, the flavors remain delightful. Just avoid serving them chilled directly from the refrigerator, as the textures and flavors won’t be as vibrant. If reheating, see the storage section for best practices.
Can I Prepare These Tarts in Advance?
Yes, you can absolutely make these delicious tomato tarts ahead of time, which makes them a fantastic option for entertaining! Once baked and fully cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to prepare them for a party or meal without last-minute stress.
When you’re ready to serve, I highly recommend warming them through in the oven. This will help to revive the crispness of the puff pastry. Pop them onto a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Crucially, wait until just before serving to add any fresh garnishes like chopped basil or grated Parmesan. This ensures the herbs remain bright and fresh, and the cheese doesn’t melt into a greasy layer during reheating.
Exploring Alternative Fresh Herbs
One of the joys of this recipe is its adaptability, especially when it comes to herbs! While the combination of fresh thyme and basil creates a classic and wonderfully aromatic flavor profile, feel free to get creative and experiment with other fresh herbs to suit your palate or what you have on hand. Consider these delightful alternatives:
- Parsley: Fresh, vibrant, and slightly peppery, parsley (flat-leaf or curly) offers a clean taste that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and cream cheese.
- Oregano: Known for its robust and slightly earthy flavor, fresh oregano adds a wonderful Mediterranean touch, especially when combined with basil.
- Tarragon: For a unique twist, tarragon provides a delicate anise-like flavor that can add an unexpected elegance to your tarts.
- Rosemary: If you enjoy strong, piney notes, a very small amount of finely chopped fresh rosemary can be exquisite. However, use it sparingly, as rosemary is a potent herb and can easily overpower other flavors. A little goes a long way!
- Chives: For a milder, oniony flavor, fresh chives are a delightful addition, offering a subtle tang and bright green color.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match! A blend of basil, parsley, and a hint of oregano can be particularly wonderful. Always taste your herb blend before adding it to the cream cheese to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.
Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizer recipes page for a wealth of ideas!
What to Serve Alongside Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts
These juicy, buttery, and utterly summery tomato tarts are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect complement to a wide array of other dishes. Their light yet satisfying nature means they can be part of a larger meal or shine as a standalone feature.
For a Light Lunch or Brunch:
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these tarts is to prepare a half batch at the beginning of the week and reheat one daily for a quick, delicious lunch. They pair wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing green salad. Consider adding some balsamic vinaigrette or a light lemon-herb dressing to complement the tart’s flavors. A simple bowl of Instant Pot Tomato Soup would also make for a delightful and comforting pairing.
For a Dinner Party or Summer Gathering:
If you’re serving these elegant tomato tarts as an appetizer for a dinner party or a backyard gathering, consider pairing them with beverages that won’t overpower their delicate flavors. A bright and zesty Limoncello Spritz or a classic Aperol Spritz are wonderfully refreshing choices that enhance the summery vibe without competing with the tomatoes.
They also make a sophisticated appetizer for special occasions like bridal showers or baby showers. Elevate the celebration by serving them alongside elegant Champagne Floats – a perfect way to get the party started!
As Part of an Appetizer Spread:
To create a varied and exciting appetizer spread, pair these tomato tarts with other fresh and summery bites. Consider serving them alongside savory Air Fryer Scallops with Chive Lemon Butter for a touch of seafood elegance, or hearty Cacio e Pepe Grilled Chicken Wings for a more robust option.
Main Course Pairings:
If you’re looking for a main course to follow, keep the light and flavorful theme going. A hearty Salmon Sandwich with Creamy Dill Sauce is always a winner and complements the tarts beautifully. Alternatively, grill up some chicken or steak and serve it with a vibrant side like Summer Corn Tomato Risotto, which shares some of the same fresh, seasonal ingredients.
For a Sweet Ending:
After a savory delight, a sweet treat is always welcome. Why not continue the puff pastry theme with one of these delightful Puff Pastry Dessert Recipes? From fruit tarts to sweet pastries, there’s a perfect ending to every meal.
Storage and Reheating Guide
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your tomato puff pastry tarts long after they’re baked:
- Storing: To maintain freshness, allow the tarts to cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them an excellent make-ahead option for busy days or entertaining.
- Reheating: For the best results and to restore the crispness of the pastry, reheat the tomato tarts in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tarts on a baking sheet (a lined one is always a good idea) and bake for approximately 5 to 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the pastry feels crispy again. Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it can make the puff pastry soggy. Remember to add any fresh garnishes (like basil or Parmesan) only after reheating, right before serving.
- Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this recipe. Tomatoes, with their high water content, tend to become mushy and lose their vibrant texture and concentrated flavor when subjected to the freezing and thawing process. The integrity of the delicate puff pastry can also be compromised. For optimal enjoyment, it’s best to consume these tarts fresh or within the refrigerated storage period.
Seasonal Selection Tip for Tomatoes
The secret to truly outstanding tomato tarts lies in selecting the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes possible. When choosing your tomatoes, focus on these characteristics: they should be firm but yield slightly to a gentle squeeze, indicating juiciness without being overly soft. The skin should be smooth, taut, and possess a healthy sheen. Most importantly, don’t forget to smell them! A truly ripe tomato will have a rich, earthy, and almost floral scent, sometimes even a subtle hint reminiscent of basil. If a tomato lacks fragrance, it’s likely not fully ripe and won’t deliver the concentrated flavor you desire for these tarts. Embrace peak season for the best results!
Finally, if you whip up these delightful tomato puff pastry tarts, please make sure to share your experience by giving this recipe a rating or leaving a comment below! I absolutely love hearing about your culinary adventures and always make time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have about the recipe too – I’m here to help!
Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I adore looking through all your photos. It genuinely means the world to me!
Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts Recipe
Equipment Needed
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Shun 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
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Utility Cutting Board
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7-Speed Hand Mixer
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mixing bowls
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Silicone Baking Mat Sheets
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Half Sheet Pan
Ingredients for Tarts
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp chopped fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Variety of tomatoes sliced in 1/4-inch thickness (if using cherry or grape tomatoes, cut them in half)
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 Tbsp water
- Garnish: Freshly grated parmesan cheese freshly chopped basil
Detailed Instructions
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Preheat oven with 400˚F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Lightly roll out the sheets of puff pastry. Cut each into 4 rectangles so you have 8 in total.
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Use a knife to create a 1/2-inch border around each tart. Make sure that you do not cut all the way through the pastry. Use a fork to lightly pierce the center of each multiple times.
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Place pastry pieces on prepared baking sheet. Set aside.
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In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, thyme, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Spread the cream cheese in the center of each tart in an even layer. Top with slices of tomatoes.
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Lightly beat together the egg and water until combined. Brush on the edges of each tart.
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Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and puffed up.
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Garnish with cheese and basil, as desired. Serve warm.
Recipe Video Guide
Important Notes
*Be sure to slice your tomatoes into even slices to ensure that they cook evenly.
*Line your baking sheet with either parchment paper or a silicone mat so the tarts do not stick to the baking sheet. You can also grease a baking sheet by lightly spraying it with cooking spray if you don’t have a mat or parchment paper.
Nutritional Information