Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These tarts are quick to make, requiring just a few ingredients. The combination of the buttery puff pastry, the juicy, caramelized pears, and the almond flour filling is absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect for an afternoon treat or as a light dessert after dinner. Plus, with only 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a bakery-quality dessert in no time.
Ingredients
For the tarts:
- Frozen puff pastry sheets
- Pears (firm but ripe)
- Almond flour
- Brown sugar
- Egg
- Milk
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (370°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the pears thinly and place them on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the puff pastry into rectangles and place on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle each rectangle with almond flour and top with the sliced pears.
- Sprinkle the pears with brown sugar.
- Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush around the edges of the pastry.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, covering with foil after 15 minutes to avoid excessive browning.
- Let the tarts cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 12 tarts. Prep time is about 15 minutes, with baking time of 40-45 minutes.
Variations
- Apple Tarts: Substitute pears with thinly sliced apples.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of honey or homemade caramel for extra sweetness.
- Savory Option: Add a bit of brie cheese or gorgonzola to the tart before baking for a savory twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store the tarts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven to crisp up the pastry again.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe.
How do I avoid soggy pastry?
Ensure the pears are thinly sliced and the excess moisture is absorbed with paper towels.
Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, freeze after cooling and wrap them individually. They can be reheated later, but the pastry might be slightly less crispy.
What other fruits can I use?
You can use apples, figs, or even apricots in place of pears.
Can I make these tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tarts and bake them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, toasted almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch.
How do I know when the tarts are done?
The pastry should be golden brown and the pears caramelized when the tarts are done.
Can I add spices to the pears?
Try adding cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Can I make these tarts with jam?
Yes, you can add a thin layer of apricot or fig jam beneath the pears for added sweetness.
Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Yes, almond meal will work, but almond flour provides a finer texture.
Conclusion
These Pear Puff Pastry Tarts are the perfect balance of flaky pastry and tender, caramelized pears. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, they’re an elegant dessert for any occasion. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they’re sure to impress your guests with their delicious flavor and beautiful presentation.
Print
Pear Puff Pastry Tarts
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pear Puff Pastry Tarts are a simple yet elegant dessert featuring caramelized pears on a flaky puff pastry base, topped with almond flour and brown sugar. Quick to prepare and perfect for impressing guests, these tarts offer a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
For the tarts:
Frozen puff pastry sheets
Pears (firm but ripe)
Almond flour
Brown sugar
Egg
Milk
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 190°C (370°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Slice the pears thinly and place them on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
-
Cut the puff pastry into rectangles and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Sprinkle each pastry rectangle with almond flour, then top with the sliced pears.
-
Sprinkle the pears with brown sugar.
-
Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush the mixture around the edges of the pastry.
-
Bake for 40-45 minutes, covering the tarts with foil after 15 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
-
Let the tarts cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store the tarts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven to crisp up the pastry again.
Variations: You can substitute pears with apples or figs. For extra sweetness, drizzle honey or homemade caramel on top. For a savory twist, add brie cheese or gorgonzola before baking.
Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can be added to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
