Golden Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts – A Crispy, Savory Delight

Introduction

These golden bacon and cheese puff pastry tarts are the perfect blend of flaky, buttery pastry, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bacon. They are incredibly easy to prepare and make a fantastic breakfast, brunch, snack, or appetizer. Ready in under 30 minutes, these tarts are sure to impress with their rich flavors and crispy texture.

Ingredients

(Serves 6-8)

For the Puff Pastry Tarts:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth)
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
3. Grate the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

2. Shape the Puff Pastry

1. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
2. Cut into 6-8 squares or circles, depending on your preference.
3. Place the pastry pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

3. Assemble the Tarts

1. Lightly score a border around each pastry piece, leaving about ½ inch (1 cm) to allow the edges to puff up.
2. Sprinkle an even layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese inside the border.
3. Top with crispy crumbled bacon.
4. Season with black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

4. Bake to Perfection

1. In a small bowl, whisk egg and milk together to make an egg wash.
2. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with egg wash to give them a golden finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Serve warm as a breakfast treat, snack, or party appetizer.

Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Tarts

• Keep puff pastry cold before baking for maximum flakiness.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try Swiss, gouda, or feta for a different twist.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tarts in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

These golden bacon and cheese puff pastry tarts are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a savory, flaky treat. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or as an appetizer, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe today and enjoy homemade, bakery-style goodness!