This Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, all encased in a flaky puff pastry. Inspired by the classic Pillsbury Toaster Strudel, this elevated version features a creamy layer of cream cheese and a golden, sugary crust. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a summery dessert.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of store-bought frozen puff pastry, defrosted
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh rhubarb, sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, rhubarb, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese with vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the tart:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Spoon the strawberry-rhubarb mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a border. Press the corners to seal.
- Brush the edges with the beaten egg and sprinkle with additional sugar.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool the tart on the baking sheet for 20-30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
- Slice and serve: Cut into 6-8 slices and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
One of the standout features of the Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart is the harmonious blend of flavors. The rhubarb brings a tart, slightly sour element to the dish, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries. This contrast of flavors adds depth and complexity to the tart, making it far more exciting than a basic fruit dessert.
Rhubarb, often referred to as a vegetable but used as a fruit in cooking, is known for its sharp, tangy flavor. It pairs wonderfully with sweet fruits like strawberries, which are juicy and full of natural sweetness. Together, they create a filling that is both flavorful and balanced. The cream cheese layer in this tart helps to mellow the acidity of the fruit, providing a rich and creamy contrast to the fruity filling and buttery pastry.
The Versatility of Puff Pastry
Puff pastry is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish with its delicate, flaky texture. In this recipe, the puff pastry acts as the perfect base for the creamy filling and fruity topping. When baked, puff pastry puffs up beautifully, creating a crisp and airy texture that contrasts perfectly with the smoothness of the cream cheese and the juiciness of the fruit.
Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe incredibly easy and accessible for home bakers of all skill levels. Puff pastry requires very little effort to work with, yet it delivers a pastry that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery. Its buttery flavor and light texture provide a satisfying crunch while allowing the flavors of the filling to shine.
The Role of Cream Cheese in the Tart
The addition of cream cheese in this recipe brings a creamy richness to the tart that helps to balance out the acidity of the strawberries and rhubarb. The cream cheese layer not only adds flavor but also helps to stabilize the filling, ensuring that the fruit doesn’t overpower the delicate puff pastry. Its smooth, slightly tangy profile complements the sweetness of the fruit and the buttery flavor of the pastry.
The cream cheese layer is simple to make—just blend cream cheese with a touch of vanilla extract to add depth and sweetness. This basic mixture serves as a neutral base for the fruit, allowing the strawberries and rhubarb to shine without competing flavors. The cream cheese also provides a luxurious mouthfeel, making each bite a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.
The Importance of Fresh Fruit
When making the Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart, using fresh, in-season fruit is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. Fresh strawberries provide a burst of sweetness, while the rhubarb gives the tart a tangy edge. Together, they create a delightful filling that is both juicy and flavorful.
While frozen fruit can be used in a pinch, fresh fruit is recommended for this recipe because it retains its shape and texture better during baking. Fresh strawberries and rhubarb also offer brighter, more pronounced flavors, which contribute to the overall deliciousness of the tart. Additionally, the combination of fresh fruit adds a vibrant pop of color to the dessert, making it visually appealing as well as tasty.
Customizing the Tart
One of the great things about this Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart is its versatility. While the classic combination of strawberries and rhubarb is a fan favorite, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your preferences. For example, you can add other fruits, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, to the filling to create a more complex flavor profile. Each type of fruit will bring its own unique taste and texture to the tart, giving you the freedom to experiment and find your perfect combination.
In addition to swapping out fruits, you can also adjust the level of sweetness or tartness by altering the amount of sugar and cornstarch in the filling. If you prefer a sweeter tart, feel free to add more sugar, or if you like a more tart flavor, you can increase the amount of rhubarb in the filling. This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
The Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for both casual and formal events. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of fresh cream for extra indulgence.
This tart is also a great option for brunch or afternoon tea, as it complements a cup of coffee or tea beautifully. The richness of the cream cheese and the brightness of the fruit provide a satisfying contrast to the warmth of your favorite beverage. You can serve the tart on its own, or pair it with other light pastries, muffins, or savory dishes for a well-rounded meal.
Making the Tart Ahead of Time
If you’re planning a special event or gathering, this Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart can easily be made ahead of time. You can prepare the tart up until the baking step, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a convenient option for busy hosts who want to spend more time enjoying their event than preparing food.
Alternatively, if you have leftover tart, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crisp texture, or enjoy it cold as a refreshing treat.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Rhubarb Puff Pastry Tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-make tart is a great choice for those who want to indulge in a sophisticated yet simple dessert.