Name: Raspberry Tartlets
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup pastry cream or vanilla custard; 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional, for glaze)

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Short description

Delicate, bite‑sized pastries boasting a flaky crust filled with creamy tang and crowned with juicy raspberries—perfect for elegant tea times or casual dessert spreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Raspberry tartlets are quick to assemble yet look impressively refined. Using convenient elements like puff pastry (or homemade tart shells), they require minimal fuss and deliver maximum flavor and visual appeal. These treats can be made ahead or assembled just before serving, offering both flexibility and freshness.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Puff pastry sheets (or homemade tartlet shells)
Cream cheese
Powdered (icing) sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon zest
Fresh raspberries
Egg (for brushing pastry)
Demerara or granulated sugar (for sprinkling edges)

directions

Prepare pastry: Preheat oven. Cut puff pastry into squares or rounds; score a border inside each, then dock the centers with a fork. Brush edges with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar for a golden, crunchy edge. Bake until puffed and golden, then cool.
Make cream cheese filling: Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Assemble tartlets: Spread or pipe a spoonful of cream cheese mixture into each cooled tartlet shell. Top with fresh raspberries and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 9 tartlets (depending on size).
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Fruit swap: Use blackberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries in place of raspberries.
Alternative crust: Try homemade pâte sucrée or sablée shells for richer, cookie‑like bases.
Flavor twists: Add lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or jam beneath the raspberries for extra flavor contrast.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store components separately for best texture—keep puff pastry tartlets at room temperature in an airtight container, and the cream cheese filling and raspberries refrigerated.
After assembly: Tartlets are best eaten within 24 hours. Once assembled, keep them refrigerated and cover loosely.
Reheating: No reheating is needed—these are best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make the shells ahead of time?

Yes—baked tartlet shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours before filling.

Will the pastry become soggy if filled early?

Yes, the filling may soften the crust edges. For the best texture, assemble tartlets shortly before serving.

Can I freeze the unbaked tartlets?

While possible with homemade pastry, puff pastry shells may lose their puffiness. Freezing is not generally recommended for optimal texture.

Are frozen raspberries okay to use?

Yes—if thawed and drained well. Fresh raspberries are preferred for topping due to their firmer texture.

Can I make more than 9 tartlets?

Absolutely—simply scale the recipe quantities and pastry pieces to make as many as you need.

What if I don’t have lemon zest?

You can omit it or substitute with a drop of lemon extract for brightness, or your favorite citrus zest (like orange) for variation.

Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese?

Yes—mascarpone offers a richer, milder flavor. You may need to adjust sweetness slightly by adding a touch more sugar.

How do I prevent the pastry edges from burning?

Keep an eye on the edges during baking and lower your oven rack if necessary. Using an egg wash and sugared edges helps promote even browning.

Is it necessary to dust with powdered sugar?

No, it’s optional. Powdered sugar adds a delicate finish but can be omitted for a cleaner look.

How long does the filling last in the fridge?

The cream cheese filling, when stored separately in an airtight container, will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Raspberry tartlets offer an elegant dessert option that’s simple yet sophisticated. Their easy preparation, make‑ahead flexibility, and endless customization options make them a beloved choice for any gathering—from casual coffee dates to formal receptions. Whether using a shortcut like puff pastry or handcrafting delicate homemade shells, these tartlets never fail to delight.