If you are craving a dessert that combines bright citrusy notes with juicy bursts of berries and the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry, this Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors layered onto a golden, crisp pastry base. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, want a stunning dessert, or just treating yourself to something special, this tart will quickly become a cherished favorite. It’s impressive yet simple, and every bite feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this tart lies in its straightforward, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor, texture, and color. From the zesty lemons that brighten everything up, to the fresh blueberries bursting with natural sweetness, every component contributes to making this recipe irresistible.
- Cream cheese, 4 oz, softened: Provides a smooth, tangy base that complements sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
- Confectioners’ sugar, 1/4 cup: Adds delicate sweetness and helps create a creamy, velvety texture in the cream cheese layer.
- Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon: Infuses a fresh citrus punch that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- Fresh blueberries, 2 cups: These juicy gems bring natural sweetness and a burst of color.
- Granulated sugar, 2 tbsp: Mixed with lemon zest for a fragrant, lightly crunchy crumble topping.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Added to the blueberry layer to enhance the tartness and balance the sweet berries.
- Zest of 1/2 lemon: Gives extra aroma and depth to the crumble and blueberry mix.
- All-purpose flour, 1/2 cup: Essential for that crumbly, buttery topping texture.
- Unsalted butter, 4 tbsp (melted): Binds the crumble ingredients and adds richness to the topping.
- Frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed: Creates a golden, flaky foundation that’s delightfully light and crisp.
How to Make Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and place a baking sheet inside to get it nice and hot. This will help your tart bake evenly and develop a golden, puffed crust. In a medium bowl, gently mix the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice with a rubber spatula until everything is combined into a smooth, luscious mixture. This tangy layer will be the rich counterpoint to the sweet blueberries and buttery pastry.
Step 2: Make the Blueberry Mixture
In another bowl, combine the fresh blueberries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Rub the sugar and zest first with your fingers until it’s fragrant—that’s a small trick to really release the citrus oils and elevate the flavor profile. Toss this fragrant sugar mixture with the berries so they are evenly coated, ensuring each bite has that perfect burst of sweet and tart.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping
Rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar until it’s fragrant, then combine this with the flour. Pour in the melted butter and stir gently until the mixture turns crumbly and holds together just enough to sprinkle over the tart. This topping will bake to a golden crunch, adding wonderful texture and a little zing to every mouthful.
Step 4: Roll and Assemble the Tart
On a piece of parchment paper, roll out the thawed puff pastry into a 12-by-9-inch rectangle. Fold in the edges about a 1/4 inch all the way around to form a sturdy border that will hold the fillings without spilling over. Spread your lemon cream cheese mixture evenly within the border, then evenly spoon the blueberry mixture on top. Finish by sprinkling the crumble topping over everything. Using the parchment paper makes transferring the tart to the hot baking sheet a breeze.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Carefully slide the parchment with the assembled tart onto the preheated baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry is golden and puffed, with blueberries juicy and bursting. Once the tart is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to let the layers set ever so slightly, making your slices neat and perfect.
How to Serve Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of indulgence. You might also sprinkle some extra lemon zest or a few fresh blueberries on top right before serving for a fresh, colorful pop.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast. For brunch settings, serve it alongside a cup of lightly brewed herbal tea or a citrusy fresh juice to complement the tart’s bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the tart into small, elegant squares for a party spread or create mini versions using puff pastry cut into smaller rectangles for bite-sized treats. You could even drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top for extra shine and flavor that will wow your guests visually and sensorially.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover tart tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, though it’s always a treat the day it’s made.
Freezing
This tart is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, place the tart on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps revive the puff pastry’s crispiness and warms the filling just right without drying out the berries.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
While fresh blueberries provide the best texture and flavor, frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the tart soggy.
Is it necessary to preheat the baking sheet?
Preheating the baking sheet helps the puff pastry rise and brown more evenly. Without it, the bottom might not get as crisp, so it’s a helpful step for that perfect flaky crust.
Can I make this tart vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan puff pastry. The crumble topping can be made with coconut oil or vegan butter. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
How do I prevent the puff pastry edges from burning?
If you notice the edges browning too quickly, tent them with foil halfway through baking. This protects them while the center continues to cook perfectly.
Can this recipe be halved?
Absolutely! Just halve all the ingredients and use a smaller sheet of puff pastry, or trim the pastry accordingly. Adjust baking time slightly as needed, watching for golden edges and bubbling berries.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, the Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart Recipe is a must-try. It’s bursting with fresh flavors, simple ingredients, and a luscious texture that’s sure to make everyone ask for seconds. Give it a go—you’re going to love how this easy, elegant tart becomes part of your go-to dessert collection.
Print
Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Lemon-Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart combining creamy lemon-infused cream cheese, fresh blueberries with a zesty crumble topping, all baked in a flaky puff pastry for a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Layer
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon
Blueberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 tbsp. granulated sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp. granulated sugar (rubbed with lemon zest)
Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions
- Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, use a rubber spatula to mix together the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a baking sheet inside to preheat while you prepare the tart.
- Blueberry Layer: In another medium bowl, combine the fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gently stir to coat the blueberries evenly.
- Crumble Topping: Rub the granulated sugar and lemon zest together with your fingers until fragrant. Mix this with the all-purpose flour. Add the melted butter and stir until all ingredients are combined and crumbly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a piece of parchment paper, roll the thawed puff pastry sheet into a 12-inch by 9-inch rectangle. Fold in the edges about 1/4 inch on all sides to create a raised border that will hold the fillings.
- Assemble Tart: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the folded border of the puff pastry. Spoon the blueberry mixture over the cream cheese, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping gently over the blueberries.
- Bake the Tart: Carefully slide the parchment paper with the assembled tart onto the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the blueberries are bursting.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into 16 servings. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Keep an eye on the tart during baking to avoid over-browning.
- For easier slicing, use a serrated knife to cut the tart after cooling.
- This tart can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for brunch or dessert.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
