Cheese Tarts Recipe
Description
These indulgent Cheese Tarts are a treat for the senses, combining a rich, gooey cream cheese filling with a perfectly crisp, buttery crust. With a delightful blend of cheeses, this dessert offers a wonderful balance of flavors that melt in your mouth, leaving you craving more. The filling, made from rich cream cheese and mozzarella, is not only delicious but also packed with protein and calcium, thanks to the dairy content. These tarts are perfect for any occasion – serve them as party starters, pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes, or enjoy them as a delightful snack at the office or breakfast, paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredients for Crust | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vivatta Maida (all-purpose flour) | 1 cup |
| Butter (Salted) | 50 grams, room temperature |
| Icing Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Whole Egg | 1 whole |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch (if using unsalted butter) |
| Milk Powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Ingredients for Cheese Filling | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Britannia Cream Cheese | 1 packet (or substitute with grated paneer, salt, and a pinch of water) |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon (lemon zest optional) |
| Whole Egg | 1 or 2 (depending on tart quantity) |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Corn Flour | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Butter (Salted) | 25 grams |
| Egg Yolk | 1 or 2 (for brushing) |
Preparation Time
40 minutes
Cooking Time
75 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tart Crust:
- In a stand or electric mixer, combine butter and icing sugar, and mix until the butter turns white and creamy.
- Add the whole egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the Vivatta Maida (all-purpose flour) and milk powder, mixing until a soft dough forms, similar in texture to chapati dough but a bit softer.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- While the dough is resting, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) for 10 minutes.
2. Roll the Dough:
- Roll out the dough into a thin circle, about the thickness of a poori (Indian flatbread).
- You can use tart molds or simply cut out small circles to fit into a cupcake tray or tart molds.
- Gently press the dough into the molds, ensuring it is evenly spread.
3. Bake the Crust:
- Place the crusts in the oven and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 15-16 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown.
- Once done, remove them from the oven. They will turn crisp as they cool down.
4. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- To make the filling, you can use a double boiler method or simply cook it in a non-stick pan over low heat.
- In a pan, combine cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add milk, corn flour, and a tiny bit of water, mixing until the mixture thickens.
- Once thickened, remove from the heat and let it cool for a bit.
- Slowly add whole eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Stir in butter and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Assemble the Tarts:
- Once the tart crusts have cooled, carefully spoon the cheese filling into each tart shell.
- For a glossy finish, brush the top of each tart with egg yolk.
- Bake again at 230°C (450°F) for 6-7 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly set.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Let the tarts cool down completely.
- You can store the Cheese Tarts in the fridge or keep them at room temperature in an airtight container.
7. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these delightful tarts with a steaming Cafe Latte or Tea for an extra touch of indulgence.
- They also pair beautifully with an Aloo Tikki Stuffed Pita Sandwich for a savory snack that’s perfect for a tea break or casual gathering.
Notes:
- Variations: You can play around with the filling by adding flavors like garlic, herbs, or spices to suit your personal preference.
- Storage: These tarts stay fresh for a few days and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat them gently before serving for an extra touch of warmth.
With their crisp crust and creamy filling, these Cheese Tarts are a perfect dessert for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, they are sure to impress your guests and family alike.
