Are you looking for a show-stopping yet simple dessert that combines the sweetness of pears with the creamy richness of a unique cheeseball filling? This Pear & Honey Tart is a perfect recipe to try! Using a flaky puff pastry base, roasted pears, and a luscious filling made from Wind & Willow Pear & Honey Cheeseball Mix, this tart is an ideal treat for any occasion.
In this blog post, we'll walk you through each step of the recipe, ensuring your tarts come out perfectly every time. This easy puff pastry dessert showcases the incredible flavors of seasonal pears and sweet honey, making it a go-to for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you're craving a delicious homemade dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Pear & Honey Tart Recipe
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether you're hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this tart is sure to impress guests and family alike.
- Easy to Make: With a few key ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
- Flavors You Can’t Resist: The combination of roasted pears, honey, and a creamy filling is pure perfection. Add a drizzle of Olivelle Crisp Anjou Pear Balsamic for extra depth of flavor.
- Showcases In-Store Products: This tart highlights some of our favorite products, like Wind & Willow Pear & Honey Cheeseball Mix and Olivelle Crisp Anjou Pear Balsamic.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry – Make sure it’s thawed, and don’t forget to score it 1 inch around the edge for the perfect puff!
- 4 fresh pears – Sliced thinly and sprinkled with powdered sugar before roasting to bring out their natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar – For dusting the pears before roasting.
- 1 package Wind & Willow Pear & Honey Cheeseball Mix – This will create a creamy, delicious filling that pairs perfectly with the pears.
- 1/2 cup whipping cream – Added to the cheeseball mix to create a rich, silky texture.
- 8 oz cream cheese + 4 tbsp butter – Both help enhance the creaminess of the filling.
- Olivelle Crisp Anjou Pear Balsamic (optional) – For a gourmet finish, drizzle this balsamic reduction over the top before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by preparing the puff pastry. Score 1 inch around the edges of the pastry to create a border, which will allow the edges to puff up while baking, giving your tart a beautiful, flaky crust. Bake according to the package directions until the pastry is golden and puffed.
2. Roast the Pears
While your puff pastry is baking, slice your fresh pears into thin slices. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. Let the pears cool while you move on to the filling.
3. Make the Creamy Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the Wind & Willow Pear & Honey Cheeseball Mix, cream cheese, butter, and whipping cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. This filling will give your tart its luxurious flavor and texture.
4. Assemble the Tart
Once the puff pastry has baked and cooled slightly, gently press down the center to create space for the filling. Spread the creamy cheeseball mixture evenly across the center of the tart, leaving the puffed edges intact. Then, top with the roasted pears, arranging them beautifully on the filling.
5. Optional Gourmet Finish
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle Olivelle Crisp Anjou Pear Balsamic over the top of the tart before serving. This sweet and tangy balsamic reduction adds a gourmet touch that pairs perfectly with the roasted pears and creamy filling.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Slice and serve your Pear & Honey Tart as a stunning dessert or snack. The combination of flaky puff pastry, sweet roasted pears, and creamy filling is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Pro Tips for the Best Pear & Honey Tart
- Choosing the Right Pears: Use firm, ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou. These varieties hold their shape well when roasted.
- Scoring the Puff Pastry: Don’t skip this step! Scoring the pastry ensures that the edges puff up while leaving the center flat and ready to hold your delicious filling.
- Roasting for Flavor: Roasting the pears concentrates their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor that elevates the tart to a whole new level.
- Creamy Filling Perfection: The Wind & Willow Pear & Honey Cheeseball Mix brings a delightful honey sweetness to the cream cheese mixture. Don’t forget to add the whipping cream for that light and fluffy texture!
FAQs About This Recipe
1. Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the puff pastry and the roasted pears ahead of time. Assemble the tart just before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I substitute the pears?
Absolutely! This recipe would also work well with apples, peaches, or even figs. Feel free to get creative with the fruit!
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tart is best enjoyed within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.