Cream Cheese Tart

Cream Cheese Tart

This Cream Cheese Tart is a delightful blend of flaky crust and a smooth, savory filling topped with vibrant marinated tomatoes and fresh basil. It's a savory treat perfect for any meal or a lovely gathering.

Starter

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

25 min

Servings

6

The Cream Cheese Tart is a classic dish that combines the richness of cream cheese with the tanginess of tomatoes and the aromatic freshness of basil. With its buttery, flaky crust and a filling enriched by Parmesan, eggs, and a hint of nutmeg, this tart feels both comforting and elegant. Its roots can be traced to traditional European tarts, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly delightful. This recipe is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a light white wine, making it a fantastic option for lunch, brunch, or dinner. The marinated plum tomatoes add a burst of tang and sweetness, complementing the creamy filling perfectly. Whether you're serving it as a main dish or part of a larger spread, the balance of textures and flavors promises to impress. The preparation involves creating the crust from scratch and a luscious, cheesy filling, culminating in a tart that's both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 250 g Flour
  • 125 g Butter
  • 1 Egg
  • Pinch Salt
  • 300 g Cheese
  • 100 ml milk Milk
  • 3 Eggs
  • 100 g Parmesan Cheese
  • 350 g Plum tomatoes
  • 3 tbsp White Vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • Topping Basil

Instructions

Begin by preparing the crust: combine 250g of flour — mixing plain and wholegrain spelt flours adds a lovely nutty depth — with 125g cold buttery chunks, 1 egg, and a pinch of salt. Gently bring the dough together, being careful not to overwork it, then press it evenly into your tart form. Chill this in the fridge to rest and firm up, which ensures a crisp, flaky base. While the dough chills, prepare the filling by stirring 300g of smooth cream cheese with 100ml of milk until luxuriously creamy. Crack in 3 eggs, add 100g freshly grated Parmesan, and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fragrant nutmeg for warmth. Mix thoroughly to combine. Take the tart crust from the fridge and gently prick the base all over with a fork to prevent bubbling. Pour in your velvety filling, then bake at 175°C for around 25 minutes. To avoid over-browning, tent the tart with aluminum foil halfway through baking. Meanwhile, slice approximately 350g of mini plum tomatoes. In a small pan, warm 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon honey, seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss the tomato slices in this tangy, sweet marinade. Once the tart is baked and slightly cooled, gently spoon the marinated tomatoes over the surface, avoiding any excess liquid to keep the crust crisp. Finally, garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve and enjoy this sophisticated yet straightforward delight!

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6