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Pear and Cheddar Puff Pastry Tart

Pear and Cheddar Puff Pastry Tart
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The Pear and Cheddar Puff Pastry Tart is an elegant, easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances the juicy sweetness of ripe pears with the sharp, tangy bite of aged cheddar, all nestled on a flaky, buttery puff pastry crust. Ideal for brunch, appetizers, or a quick dinner, this tart offers a sophisticated sweet and savory flavor combination that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 2 ripe pears (firm but ripe, such as Bartlett or Bosc)

Cheese

  • 6 oz aged sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced

Dough

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

Sweetener and Herbs

  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

Seasoning

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional for Assembly

  • 1 egg (for egg wash) or milk, for brushing edges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry Base: Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions. Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pastry to smooth any creases. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a knife to score a one-inch border around the edges without cutting all the way through to help the pastry puff while containing the toppings.
  2. Slice the Pears and Cheese: Thinly slice the pears to ensure even cooking and a tender texture without becoming mushy. Slice the sharp cheddar cheese into thin strips or small chunks to promote even melting and flavor distribution.
  3. Assemble the Tart: Lightly brush the puff pastry border with egg wash or milk for a glossy, golden finish. Starting inside the scored border, layer the pear slices in a single overlapping layer. Scatter the cheddar cheese evenly over the pears. Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top, then sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the tart for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Monitor closely near the end to avoid over-browning.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice and preventing juices from running.

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry cold until just before baking to maximize puff and flakiness.
  • Do not overload the tart with too many pears or cheese to avoid sogginess and uneven baking.
  • Firm pears like Bartlett or Bosc hold their shape best while softening.
  • Brushing the edges with egg wash adds a beautiful glossy finish.
  • Experiment with different sweeteners such as floral honey or balsamic reduction for unique flavor combinations.

Nutrition

Keywords: pear tart, cheddar tart, puff pastry tart, sweet and savory tart, brunch tart, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/pear-and-cheddar-puff-pastry-tart/