White Peach Mascarpone Tart is a dreamy dessert that blends the delicate sweetness of fresh white peaches with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese. The crisp, buttery tart crust provides a perfect base, while the mascarpone filling is light yet decadent. The ripe peaches are sliced thinly and arranged on top, adding a burst of natural sweetness and a touch of elegance to this simple yet impressive tart. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint can add a finishing touch to elevate the flavors even more.
The first time I made White Peach Mascarpone Tart, I was surprised at how effortless it was to put together yet how luxurious it tasted. The mascarpone filling is so velvety and smooth, and paired with the juicy, fragrant peaches, it creates the most refreshing contrast. What I love most about this tart is how it feels both comforting and refined, making it perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions. You can use other fruits like berries or nectarines if you want to mix things up, but the combination of white peaches and mascarpone is truly a match made in heaven!
Perfect for:
- Summer gatherings
- Afternoon tea
- Brunch spreads
- Elegant dinner parties
- Peach and cream lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this White Peach Mascarpone Tart will become your new favorite dessert:
- Seasonal Perfection: Showcases juicy, ripe white peaches at their peak.
- Elegant Presentation: Its vibrant peach slices and glossy finish make it a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
- Creamy Mascarpone Base: The mascarpone filling is luxuriously smooth with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Flaky Tart Crust: Buttery and crisp, the tart crust provides a perfect base for the creamy and fruity layers.
- Simple Yet Sophisticated: Easy to prepare but looks like it came from a high-end patisserie.
- Refreshing and Light: A great dessert option for warm weather.
- Customizable Fruit Topping: Swap peaches for nectarines, plums, or berries based on preference or season.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble it a few hours in advance for a stress-free dessert.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy, with a hint of almond in the crust.
- Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair it with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
- Preparation Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1.5 hours
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 22g
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
the Mascarpone Filling:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 3-4 ripe white peaches, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup apricot jam
- 1 tablespoon water
Ingredient Highlights
- White Peaches: Provide a subtle, floral sweetness perfect for this tart.
- Mascarpone Cheese: Adds creamy richness without being too heavy.
- Apricot Jam: Enhances the tart’s glossy finish and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Chilled Butter: Ensures the crust bakes up perfectly flaky.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Tart Crust:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Egg and Water: Stir in the egg yolk and ice water one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan. Prick the base with a fork and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
- Whip the Mascarpone: In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Whip Cream Separately: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
Assemble the Tart:
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the mascarpone mixture over the cooled tart crust.
- Arrange Peach Slices: Neatly layer the peach slices in a circular pattern over the mascarpone filling.
Prepare the Glaze:
- Heat Jam and Water: In a small saucepan, gently heat the apricot jam with water until smooth.
- Brush Over Peaches: Use a pastry brush to lightly glaze the peaches for a glossy finish.
Chill and Serve:
- Chill the Tart: Refrigerate the assembled tart for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the tart into wedges and serve chilled.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for White Peach Mascarpone Tart:
- With Fresh Mint: Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.
- With Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the edges with powdered sugar before serving.
- As a Brunch Star: Pair with mimosas or iced tea for a luxurious brunch.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- With Berries: Serve with fresh raspberries or blueberries for contrast.
- With Coffee: Pair a slice with a cappuccino or espresso for a European-style dessert experience.
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- With Almonds: Sprinkle slivered almonds over the tart for added crunch.
- On a Cake Stand: Present on a cake stand for a stunning table centerpiece.
Additional Tips
- Use Ripe Peaches: Choose peaches that are ripe but firm for the best texture and flavor.
- Chill the Crust: Always chill the crust before rolling to prevent shrinking during baking.
- Room Temperature Mascarpone: Ensure mascarpone is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Thinly Slice Peaches: Thin slices are easier to layer and create a more elegant look.
- Avoid Overloading with Jam: A light glaze is all you need for a polished finish.
Recipe Variations
- Mixed Fruit Tart: Combine peaches with other fruits like strawberries, kiwi, or blackberries.
- Lemon Mascarpone Tart: Add lemon zest to the mascarpone filling for a citrus twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
- Peach and Almond Tart: Add almond extract to the filling and sprinkle toasted almonds on top.
- Vegan Version: Substitute mascarpone and cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
- Berry Glaze: Use a raspberry or strawberry glaze instead of apricot.
- Rustic Galette: Turn the recipe into a free-form galette for a more casual presentation.
- Plum Variation: Swap peaches for plums for a slightly tart version.
- Honey Drizzle: Drizzle honey over the tart instead of using a glaze.
- Mini Tarts: Make individual-sized portions for a unique presentation.
Special Equipment
- Tart Pan: A 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom is ideal for easy release.
- Pastry Blender: Helps cut butter into the flour for the crust.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough evenly.
- Pastry Brush: For applying the glaze.
- Electric Mixer: For whipping cream and mascarpone.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the tart crust completely.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing peaches thinly.
- Cake Stand: For serving and presentation.
FAQ Section
- Can I use canned peaches?
Fresh peaches are recommended, but canned peaches can work in a pinch. Drain and pat them dry first. - How long does this tart last?
Store in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the tart?
The crust can be frozen, but the assembled tart is best enjoyed fresh. - Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Yes, nectarines make an excellent substitute. - What if I don’t have mascarpone?
Substitute with cream cheese, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly. - How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Brush the baked crust with melted white chocolate before adding the filling to create a barrier. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the tart a few hours before serving and keep it chilled. - What’s the best way to slice the tart cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices. - Can I make this tart nut-free?
Yes, ensure all ingredients are nut-free and skip any optional almond toppings. - Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! A pre-made tart shell saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
White Peach Mascarpone Tart is an elegant and indulgent dessert that brings together the delicate sweetness of ripe white peaches with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese, all nestled in a buttery, flaky tart crust. The smooth mascarpone filling provides a luscious base for the fresh, juicy peach slices, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its light and refreshing taste, this tart is the ultimate treat for any occasion, whether it’s a summer celebration, a family gathering, or a simple moment of indulgence.
This tart is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with the vibrant peaches beautifully arranged on top of the creamy filling. You can enhance the flavor with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint for an extra pop of freshness. The crisp, buttery crust ties everything together, making each bite a perfect harmony of sweetness, creaminess, and lightness.
I can’t wait to see how your White Peach Mascarpone Tart turns out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your stunning creation. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know how you made this tart your own—I’d love to hear about your personal touch!