Prepare to be enchanted by a truly delightful dessert: the Apple Cream Cheese Tart. This exquisite creation starts with a perfectly buttery and flaky Pillsbury™ pastry crust, providing the ideal foundation for what’s to come. Nestled within this golden shell is a tempting and luscious layer of creamy, dreamy cream cheese filling, offering a rich counterpoint to the vibrant apple topping.

The tart is then generously crowned with a layer of thinly sliced, cinnamon-sugary Granny Smith apples, creating a beautiful mosaic of fruit. As it bakes, the kitchen fills with an aroma that signals pure comfort, culminating in a lovely golden-brown finish. The final touch? A delicate drizzle of a simple, old-fashioned glaze that ties all the flavors together in a harmonious symphony. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering an incredible balance of sweetness, tartness, and creamy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. If you love easy pastries, you might also adore our So Easy Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Danish Recipe!

Oh my, heart be still! Just looking at these pictures makes me want to dig in right away. There’s something truly special about a homemade tart, especially when it combines classic flavors with such ease. I’ve had the pleasure of partnering with Pillsbury™ to create many fantastic recipes, and this Apple Cream Cheese Tart is another testament to the versatility and quality of their products. I’m absolutely thrilled to share this Pillsbury™-inspired delight with you, and I know for a fact that you will fall head over heels for its irresistible charm and delicious taste.

Indulge in the Irresistible Apple Cream Cheese Tart: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Welcome to a world where baking is both effortless and incredibly rewarding! This Easy Apple Cream Cheese Tart recipe is designed for home bakers of all skill levels, delivering a sophisticated dessert without the fuss. Imagine a tender, flaky crust, a rich and tangy cream cheese layer, and a vibrant crown of spiced apples, all finished with a sweet glaze. It’s the kind of dessert that feels gourmet but comes together with remarkable simplicity, thanks in part to the convenience of Pillsbury™ Crescent Dough. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, this tart is a perfect choice that balances ease with extraordinary flavor.

Why You’ll Adore This Easy Apple Cream Cheese Tart

This isn’t just another apple dessert; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this Apple Cream Cheese Tart will quickly become a cherished recipe in your repertoire:

• Effortless Elegance: Using a Pillsbury™ Crescent Dough Sheet simplifies the crust-making process significantly, allowing you to achieve a perfectly flaky, buttery base without the traditional effort. It’s ideal for when you want a homemade taste without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Harmonious Flavor Profile: The tartness of Granny Smith apples beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the cream cheese filling and the cinnamon-sugar topping. This balance creates a multi-layered flavor experience that’s never overly sweet.
• Irresistible Texture Contrast: From the crisp, golden pastry to the smooth, creamy filling and the tender, spiced apple slices, every bite offers a delightful interplay of textures that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatility for Any Occasion: While it screams “fall comfort,” this tart is genuinely delightful year-round. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream; it adapts beautifully to any season or celebration.
• Customizable Potential: This recipe provides a fantastic foundation for experimentation. Feel free to adjust the spices, add nuts, or even try different fruits for a personalized touch.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Apple Cream Cheese Tart

Creating this stunning dessert requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to form an unforgettable treat. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

Pastry Tart:

• 1 package Pillsbury™ Crescent Dough Sheet

This is your secret weapon for an incredibly easy and consistently flaky crust. The dough sheet is convenient to unroll and press into the pan, saving you precious time and effort.

Cream Cheese Layer:

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, at room temperature

Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a perfectly smooth, lump-free filling. This creates the luscious, tangy base that pairs so well with apples.

• ½ cup granulated sugar

Provides the perfect amount of sweetness to the cream cheese layer, balancing its natural tanginess.

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Eggs help bind the cream cheese filling, giving it structure and a rich, custardy texture when baked.

• 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract

Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese filling. Almond extract adds a sophisticated, nutty note, while vanilla extract offers a classic, comforting aroma. Choose your favorite!

Sliced Apple Mixture:

• 4-6 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Granny Smith apples are ideal for baking due to their firm texture and tartness, which holds up well to heat and provides a delicious contrast to the sweet components of the tart.

• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar

Sweetens the apples and helps create a lovely caramelized texture as they bake.

• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

The quintessential spice for apples, cinnamon infuses the fruit with warm, aromatic notes that are synonymous with comforting desserts.

Old Fashioned Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Forms the smooth, sweet base of your simple glaze, adding a beautiful finish to the tart.

• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Used to achieve the desired consistency for your glaze. Heavy cream will yield a richer, thicker glaze, while milk will make it lighter.

As you can see in the picture above, the Pillsbury™ Crescent Dough Sheet tube is an absolute game-changer for this recipe. It’s what I used to create the effortlessly flaky and buttery pastry base for this incredible apple cream cheese delight. This product truly makes gourmet baking accessible and enjoyable for everyone!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Your Apple Cream Cheese Tart

Creating this exquisite tart is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps to ensure success. Follow these instructions for a perfectly baked, mouth-watering dessert.

Preparation & Preheat:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the tart inside, crucial for an even bake.

Crafting the Flaky Pastry Tart Base:

1. To prepare your baking pan, line a 9×13 inch pan with two sheets of parchment paper. Lay one sheet lengthwise and the other widthwise, ensuring both are cut to fit the pan neatly. This parchment paper sling will make it incredibly easy to lift the baked tart out later. Carefully unroll the Pillsbury™ Crescent Dough Sheet and press it firmly onto the bottom of the prepared pan, extending it about 1 inch up the sides to form a sturdy crust. Ensure the dough is even and without gaps.

Whipping Up the Dreamy Cream Cheese Layer:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese until it is wonderfully smooth and free of any lumps. Gradually add the ½ cup of granulated sugar to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until it’s light and well combined. Next, gently incorporate the two lightly beaten eggs, mixing on low speed just until they are fully blended into the cream cheese. Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added. Finally, stir in your chosen extract – almond or vanilla – for an added layer of flavor. Pour this creamy, luscious filling evenly into the prepared pastry crust.

Assembling the Cinnamon-Kissed Apple Topping:

1. Place your very thinly sliced Granny Smith apples into a large bowl or a sealable Ziploc bag. Evenly sprinkle the apples with 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Gently toss the apples until each slice is beautifully coated with the fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture. Now, artfully arrange these spiced apple slices over the cream cheese mixture in your tart. You can create an overlapping pattern, making it visually appealing and ensuring even apple distribution.

Baking Your Tart to Golden Perfection:

1. Place the tart into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for an initial 5 minutes. This high heat helps to set the crust quickly.
2. After the first 5 minutes, without removing the tart from the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for another 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are tender when pierced with a fork, the pastry crust has turned a deep, inviting golden brown, and the cream cheese filling is set in the center, with no jiggling.
3. Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the tart from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential for the filling to fully set and for easy slicing.

The Finishing Touch: A Simple Old-Fashioned Glaze:

1. While your tart is cooling, prepare the classic glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk (or heavy cream) until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more milk; if too thin, stir in a little more confectioners’ sugar until it’s just right.
2. Once the tart is cool, gently lift the parchment paper ends to remove the entire tart from the baking pan. Transfer it to a serving platter or a large cutting board.
3. Generously drizzle the prepared glaze over the cooled tart. Slice into approximately 15 servings, or adjust according to your preference. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!
4. Should you have any delectable leftovers (which is unlikely!), cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to two days to maintain freshness.

This Apple Cream Cheese Dessert is absolutely awe-mazing! It’s flaky, buttery, and utterly delicious – do I even need to say more? The combination of tender apples, creamy cheese, and a perfect pastry base is simply heavenly. While I never want summer to end, thoughts of this delightful apple tart certainly get me excited for the flavors of fall. It’s the perfect treat to usher in cooler weather and cozy evenings.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could just extend summer while still enjoying all the comforting desserts of fall? Come on, Mother Nature, let’s make it happen! Imagine warm sunshine combined with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples – pure bliss! This tart truly embodies that perfect seasonal bridge, making it a favorite no matter the time of year.

Tips for the Best Apple Cream Cheese Tart

To ensure your Apple Cream Cheese Tart turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Thinly Slice Apples: This is crucial for even cooking. Apples that are too thick will remain crunchy, while very thin slices will become beautifully tender and blend seamlessly with the filling. A mandoline slicer can achieve uniform thinness quickly, but a sharp knife and careful technique work just as well.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This makes the cream cheese easier to beat until smooth and prevents the filling from becoming lumpy. Cold ingredients can also cause the mixture to separate.
• Don’t Overmix the Cream Cheese Filling: Once the eggs are added, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which might cause the filling to puff up excessively and then crack as it cools.
• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so use the baking time as a guideline. The tart is done when the edges are golden, the apples are tender, and the center of the cream cheese filling is set with only a slight wobble.
• Cool Completely: Resist the urge to slice into the tart while it’s still hot. Cooling allows the cream cheese filling to fully set, preventing a runny center and ensuring clean slices.
• Customize Your Spices: While cinnamon is classic, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, a dash of allspice, or a touch of cardamom to your apple mixture for extra complexity.

Variations to Customize Your Tart

This Apple Cream Cheese Tart is wonderfully versatile, allowing for creative twists and personalized flavors:

• Fruit Swaps: Experiment with other fruits! Pears, peaches (fresh or canned and well-drained), or even berries like raspberries or blueberries could be delightful alternatives or additions to the apple layer.
• Nutty Topping: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle slivered almonds, chopped pecans, or walnuts over the apples before baking. The nuts will toast beautifully in the oven.
• Caramel Drizzle: Instead of the traditional glaze, drizzle your cooled tart with our Best Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce for an extra layer of decadence. Apple and caramel are a match made in heaven!
• Streusel Topping: For a crumbly texture, prepare a simple streusel (butter, flour, sugar, and cinnamon) and sprinkle it over the apples before baking. This adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for an extra bright, citrusy note that complements the apples beautifully.

Serving Suggestions for Your Delightful Tart

This Apple Cream Cheese Tart is a fantastic dessert on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple serving suggestions:

• Serve it slightly warm with a generous scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the ice cream to melt into the warm fruit and cream cheese.
• A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a swirl of crème fraîche can add a touch of lightness and elegance.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine for a sophisticated after-dinner treat.
• For a breakfast or brunch option, serve slices of the chilled tart alongside fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage Recommendations

To keep your Apple Cream Cheese Tart fresh and delicious, refrigerate any leftovers promptly. Cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container for up to two days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the flavors can sometimes meld and deepen slightly overnight, making for another delightful experience.

The entire family will undoubtedly enjoy this incredibly easy apple dessert, especially perfect when you have an abundance of fresh apples on hand! It’s a wonderful way to use up seasonal produce and create something truly special with minimal effort.

Remember, you can always feel free to customize the old-fashioned glaze with a drizzle of our Best Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce for an even richer experience. And for an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider sprinkling some slivered almonds or crunchy walnuts on top of our delightful apple cream cheese dessert. If you’re hungry for more apple-inspired creations, be sure to check out our collection of 45 Must-Try Best Apple Dessert Recipes for endless inspiration!

More Pillsbury-Inspired Desserts You’ll Adore:

Explore these other delectable treats made with the magic of Pillsbury™ products!

Delectable Raspberry Lemon Pastry Strudels

Skillet Raspberry-White Chocolate Pull-Apart Rolls

Lemon-Cream Cheese Crescent Ring

Explore More Delicious Desserts:

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Oreo Tart
• Cherry Streusel Crescent Pies
• Easy Caramel Apple Galette
• Cherry Crumble Pie
• Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Pound Cake

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