Plum Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Breakfast Tarts
Flaky puff pastry rectangles topped with sweetened cream cheese, fresh plum slices, and aromatic thyme create an elegant breakfast treat. The maple syrup adds natural sweetness while the thyme provides an unexpected herbal note that complements the juicy plums. Perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or when you want to turn simple ingredients into something bakery-worthy. These pastries are best enjoyed warm from the oven when the pastry is at its crispiest.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup, divided
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions
- 2 plums, pitted and slicedpeaches1:1stone-fruit
similar texture when baked
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- 2
Whisk cream cheese with 1 tablespoon maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth
- 3
Unfold puff pastry and cut into 6 rectangles, place on prepared baking sheet
- 4
Prick pastry surfaces all over with fork tines
- 5
Divide cream cheese mixture evenly between rectangles and spread, leaving small border
- 6
Arrange plum slices on top of cream cheese, overlapping slightly
- 7
Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves
- 8
Bake for 22-24 minutes, rotating baking sheet once halfway through, until golden and puffed
- 9
Drizzle with remaining maple syrup and let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Tips
Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for easiest mixing and smoothest texture
Don't skip pricking the pastry with a fork - this prevents excessive puffing in the center
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even golden browning
Good to Know
Best enjoyed same day, store covered at room temperature up to 1 day
Can assemble pastries up to 2 hours ahead, refrigerate and bake when ready
Serve warm or at room temperature within 5 minutes of baking for best texture
Common Mistakes
Don't use cold cream cheese or mixture will be lumpy
Don't skip fork pricking or centers will puff too much
Don't overbake or pastry will become tough
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely according to package directions before unfolding and cutting.
What if I don't have fresh thyme?
You can substitute with dried thyme using about 1/3 the amount, or try fresh rosemary for a different herbal note.
How long do these keep?
These are best the same day but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 1 day.