Simple, Delicious, and Perfect for Any Occasion

Today, we're excited to share one of the easiest—and most irresistible—recipes you can whip up with just three ingredients: Puff Pastry Jam and Cheese Tarts.

This recipe is wonderfully simple yet incredibly flavorful. The puff pastry becomes golden, flaky, and crisp, while the jam adds a pop of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with creamy, softened cheese. You can use a variety of jams...apricot jalapeño, balsamic and onion, lemon ginger, or any flavor you love...to completely customize the taste.

These bite-sized tarts deliver the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery richness. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, holidays, parties, or a quick afternoon treat, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Puff Pastry Jam and Cheese Tarts Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Category: Starters / Snacks

Ingredients

• 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated puff pastry
  
  
• 1 jar of jam (any flavor)
  
  
• 2 oz cream cheese (from an 8-oz block), softened
  
  
• 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for brushing the crust)
  
  

Directions

Step 1 — Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2 — Cut the Pastry

Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut them into even squares (typically 12).
Using a knife, lightly score a smaller square inside each piece—this helps the edges puff while keeping the center slightly recessed for your filling.

Step 3 — Add Cream Cheese

Place about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese in the center of each scored square.

Step 4 — Add Jam

Spoon 1 teaspoon of jam over the cream cheese. Use more if your jam is thick or if you prefer a bolder flavor.

Step 5 — Prepare for Baking

Arrange the filled pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet.
(Optional) Brush the outer edges with melted butter for extra shine and richness.

Step 6 — Bake

Bake for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and the jam is bubbling slightly.

Serving Ideas

These Puff Pastry Jam and Cheese Tarts are perfect for:

• Breakfast spreads
  
  
• Brunch buffets
  
  
• Afternoon tea
  
  
• Appetizers
  
  
• Holiday parties
  
  
• Desserts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
  
  

Try rotating different jams by season for endless fun flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These Puff Pastry Jam and Cheese Tarts prove that impressive, flavorful food doesn’t have to be complicated. With only three core ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a pastry that’s flaky, sweet, creamy, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a quick appetizer, or just wanting a warm, comforting treat, these tarts fit the occasion beautifully.

The best part is how customizable they are—just switch up the jam flavors to transform the entire experience. From sweet heat to citrus brightness to rich berry tones, every variation brings its own personality to the table.

Simple, elegant, and endlessly adaptable, these tarts are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Have fun experimenting and sharing them with the people you love. Happy baking!