Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

This peach tart with puff pastry uses one sheet of dough and four ripe peaches for a flaky, glazed dessert ready in about 40 minutes.

This peach tart with puff pastry starts with one sheet of dough, four ripe peaches, and about fifteen minutes of hands-on prep before it goes into the oven. The pastry puffs up around the fruit in about twenty-five minutes, turning deep gold at the edges while the peach juices thicken into a light glaze.

Store-bought puff pastry, layered with butter and rolled into thin sheets, browns and lifts almost entirely on its own once it hits a hot oven. That means most of the work here is slicing the peaches evenly and brushing the edges with enough egg wash to crisp up properly.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings8 slices
Difficulty LevelEasy

For another take on the same idea, see Peach Galette with Puff Pastry.

Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Why You’ll Love This Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

This recipe skips pie dough, blind baking, and any kind of tart pan. It’s built for anyone who wants a bakery-style dessert without a long ingredient list or complicated technique.

  • One sheet of store-bought puff pastry does all the work of a crust, no rolling out pie dough
  • Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses 4 peaches and pantry basics like sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon
  • Golden, flaky layers with almost no shaping skill required
  • A warm preserves glaze gives it a finished, bakery-case look
  • Easy to double for a crowd or halve for two people
  • Works with slightly underripe peaches, since baking softens them anyway

You might also enjoy: Peach Tarte Tatin Recipe

Ingredients

Every ingredient here has a specific job, thickening the peach juice, sweetening the fruit just enough, or helping the pastry brown evenly. Quantities are given in both cups/tablespoons and grams so you can measure however you prefer, and most of the list is already sitting in a typical pantry or fridge.

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed but still cold (about 14 oz / 400 g)
  • 4 medium ripe peaches, pitted and sliced ¼ inch thick (about 3 cups / 450 g)
  • â…“ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon (8 g) cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon (2 ml) pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of fine salt
  • 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) turbinado sugar, for the crust edges
  • 2 tablespoons (40 g) apricot preserves, warmed, for the finishing glaze

For a different fruit combination, try Fruit Tart Recipe.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

None of this requires specialty bakeware. A basic sheet pan and a few small tools get the job done cleanly.

  • Rimmed baking sheet, large enough to hold the pastry flat
  • Parchment paper, to keep the tart from sticking and make cleanup easy
  • Rolling pin, for gently evening out the pastry if needed
  • Pastry brush, for the egg wash and the final preserves glaze
  • Glass mixing bowl set, one for the peaches and one for the egg wash
  • Paring knife, for pitting and slicing the peaches
  • Cutting board
  • Fork, for docking the center of the pastry
  • Cooling rack, for letting the tart set without a soggy bottom
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, for warming the preserves glaze

A dark metal baking sheet browns the pastry bottom faster than a light aluminum one, which matters more here than in most bakes, since a pale bottom crust usually means a soggy one.

For a fruit-forward main course to pair with this dessert, see Peach Pie Recipe.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These are products I reach for specifically because they solve a problem that comes up while making this tart. None of them are required, but each one makes the process a little easier or the result a little better.

1. All-Butter Puff Pastry Sheets

Pastry made with shortening instead of butter tends to puff unevenly and taste flat once baked. An all-butter version rises higher around the fruit and gives the edges a much richer, flakier bite.

Get it on Amazon

2. USA Pan Nonstick Baking Sheet

Thin, flimsy sheet pans warp in a hot oven and can cause the pastry to bake unevenly. This one holds its shape at high heat, so the bottom crust browns at the same rate across the whole tart.

Get it on Amazon

3. OXO Good Grips Silicone Pastry Brush

A brush with loose bristles sheds hairs into the egg wash, which is annoying right before a bake. The silicone bristles on this one stay put and clean up in seconds under running water.

Get it on Amazon

4. Fox Run Marble Rolling Pin

Puff pastry gets sticky fast once it warms up, and a warm rolling pin makes that worse. A marble pin stays cool to the touch, so it smooths the dough without dragging or tearing it.

Get it on Amazon

5. Fine Mesh Strainer

Straining the warmed apricot preserves before brushing them on removes the chunky fruit pieces that clog a pastry brush. What’s left is a smooth, glossy glaze that coats the peaches evenly.

Get it on Amazon

For a heartier, slow-cooked take on peaches, check out Peach Crumble Recipe.

Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Follow these steps in order and the tart will come together in well under an hour.

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Set the sheet aside while you prepare the filling and pastry.

2. Make the peach filling

  • Place the sliced peaches in a mixing bowl.
  • Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  • Toss gently with a spoon or your hands until every slice is coated.
  • Let the peaches sit for 5 minutes so the sugar starts drawing out some juice.

3. Roll out and score the puff pastry

  • Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the lined baking sheet.
  • If the corners have cracked, press them back together with your fingers.
  • Using a sharp knife, score a line about ¾ inch from the edge on all four sides, cutting about halfway through the dough without cutting all the way through.
  • Prick the center area inside the scored border all over with a fork to prevent excess puffing in the middle.

4. Arrange the peaches

  • Drain any excess liquid that has collected in the bowl of peaches, leaving just enough to lightly coat the fruit.
  • Arrange the peach slices in overlapping rows inside the scored border, keeping the border itself bare.
  • Spoon any remaining thickened juice from the bowl over the top of the arranged peaches.

5. Brush with egg wash and add turbinado sugar

  • Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make the egg wash.
  • Brush the egg wash only along the outer border of the pastry, avoiding the peaches.
  • Sprinkle the turbinado sugar over the egg-washed border for extra crunch and shine.

6. Bake the tart

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven on the middle rack.
  • Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the border is puffed and deep golden brown and the peach juices are bubbling.
  • Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning if your oven runs hot on one side.

7. Glaze and cool

  • Warm the apricot preserves in a small saucepan or the microwave until loose enough to brush.
  • Strain the preserves if needed, then brush a thin layer over the warm peaches for a shiny finish.
  • Let the tart cool on the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing, which gives the juices time to set.

For a smaller-format version of this same recipe, try Mini Peach Tart Recipe.

Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Tips for The Best Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

A few small details separate a soggy tart from a crisp, evenly baked one.

  • Keep the puff pastry cold until the moment you fill it, since warm dough puffs unevenly and can stick to the counter.
  • Slice the peaches to a consistent ¼ inch so they cook at the same rate.
  • Don’t skip the cornstarch. I ruined my first tart by leaving it out, which left a puddle of peach juice pooling under the crust instead of a set glaze.
  • Drain excess liquid from the peach bowl before arranging the slices, or the extra moisture can keep the center from crisping.
  • Score the border but don’t cut all the way through, or the edges won’t puff into a raised rim.
  • If your peaches are very juicy, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to compensate.
  • Bake on the middle rack, not the top, so the top browns without the bottom staying pale.
  • Check the tart at the 18-minute mark if your oven tends to run hot.
  • Use peaches that give slightly to gentle pressure near the stem. Rock-hard peaches won’t release enough juice to build the glaze, while overripe ones turn mushy before the crust finishes browning.
  • If the pastry edges brown faster than the center bakes, loosely tent that section with a small piece of foil for the last few minutes.
  • Let the peaches sit in the sugar mixture no longer than about 10 minutes before assembling, since sitting too long draws out excess liquid that the cornstarch can’t fully absorb.
  • A pizza cutter makes clean, quick slices once the tart has cooled slightly, with less dragging than a chef’s knife.

For an alternative that skips the oven entirely, see No-Bake Peach Tart Recipe.

What to Serve with Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

This tart works equally well warm out of the oven or at room temperature, which makes it flexible for both weeknight desserts and casual gatherings.

  • A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which melts slightly into the warm peach juices
  • Freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened
  • A spoonful of mascarpone or crème fraîche for a tangier contrast
  • A drizzle of extra warm honey over each slice
  • A few torn fresh mint leaves for color and a bit of brightness
  • Strong coffee or espresso alongside a slice for an afternoon treat
  • As part of a brunch spread next to French Toast
  • A cold glass of Peach Smoothie for a fruit-forward pairing
  • A glass of chilled prosecco or moscato for an adults-only dessert course
  • Plain Greek yogurt on the side if serving it for a lighter breakfast

For a different fruit dessert entirely, see Peach Cobbler Recipe.

Variations of Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Once the base technique is familiar, it’s easy to adapt this tart to what’s in season or what you have on hand.

  • Swap in nectarines or plums for a similar texture with a slightly different tartness
  • Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries tucked between the peach slices
  • Spread a thin layer of almond frangipane or mascarpone under the peaches before baking
  • Use individual squares of puff pastry instead of one large sheet for single-serving tarts
  • Swap the apricot glaze for warmed peach preserves to intensify the peach flavor
  • Add a light dusting of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a warmer spice profile
  • Top with sliced almonds before baking for extra crunch
  • Use a mix of white and yellow peaches for a two-tone look
  • Brush the baked crust edges with a thin honey glaze instead of apricot preserves for a different sweetness
  • Cut the pastry into individual rectangles before topping with peaches for a grab-and-go version that skips slicing altogether
  • Add a splash of bourbon or amaretto to the peach filling for an adults-only version served after dinner

For a fruitier take on the same base fruit, see Strawberry Peach Tart Recipe.

Storage and Reheating

This tart holds up well for a few days, though the pastry is always crispest on the day it’s baked.

  • Store leftover tart loosely covered at room temperature for up to 1 day.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • I keep a piece of parchment between reheated slices so the glaze doesn’t stick to the container lid.
  • Reheat individual slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for 5 to 7 minutes to re-crisp the pastry.
  • Avoid microwaving if possible, since it softens the puff pastry instead of keeping it flaky.
  • This tart is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, since the peaches release extra water as they thaw and can make the pastry soggy.
  • If you do want to prep ahead, freeze the unbaked peach filling on its own in a sealed container for up to a month, then thaw and drain it well before assembling and baking.
  • A wire rack under the reheated slices helps air circulate underneath, which keeps the bottom crust from turning soft in the oven.

For another quick peach dessert to keep on hand, see Peach Crisp Recipe.

Nutritional Facts

Nutrition Per Serving (1 of 8 slices)
Calories220
Total Fat10 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Cholesterol20 mg
Sodium90 mg
Total Carbohydrate30 g
Dietary Fiber1 g
Sugars14 g
Protein3 g

Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.

For another peach and berry combination, see Blueberry Peach Galette Recipe.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While this is a dessert, a few of the ingredients bring some genuine nutritional value along with the flavor.

  • Peaches provide vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, along with natural sweetness that reduces the need for added sugar.
  • Lemon juice adds a small amount of vitamin C and helps balance the sweetness of the peaches and glaze.
  • Cinnamon contains antioxidant compounds and adds warmth to the flavor without extra sugar.
  • Egg in the wash contributes a small amount of protein and helps the crust brown attractively.
  • Butter in the puff pastry provides fat-soluble vitamins, though in modest amounts given the portion size.
  • Apricot preserves in the glaze contain small amounts of vitamin A from the fruit, though the sugar content means this is more of a flavor addition than a nutritional one.

None of this makes a puff pastry dessert a health food, but choosing ripe, in-season peaches over canned or heavily processed fruit keeps the nutritional profile as favorable as a dessert like this can be.

For a heartier peach dessert built around a cake mix shortcut, see Peach Dump Cake Recipe.

FAQs About Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry first. Frozen peaches release more liquid than fresh ones, so add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to keep the filling from getting watery.

2. Why did my puff pastry not puff up evenly?

This usually happens when the dough gets too warm before baking, or when the oven isn’t fully preheated. Keep the pastry cold until the last moment and make sure the oven has reached full temperature before the tart goes in.

3. Can I make this tart ahead of time?

You can prepare the peach filling up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the tart close to serving time, since baked puff pastry loses its crispness the longer it sits.

4. Do I need to peel the peaches first?

Peeling is optional. The skins soften as the tart bakes and add a bit of color, though you can peel them first if you prefer a smoother bite.

If you do want to peel them, a quick dip in boiling water for 30 seconds makes the skins slip off easily.

5. What can I use instead of apricot preserves for the glaze?

Warmed peach preserves or a simple honey drizzle both work well as substitutes. Either option adds shine and a touch of extra sweetness to the finished tart.

Apple jelly is another neutral option if you want shine without adding a competing fruit flavor.

For a related berry-and-peach pastry, see Blackberry Peach Galette Recipe.

Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Peach Tart with Puff Pastry

Author: Wholesome Cove
220kcal
No ratings yet
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Prep 15 minutes
Cook 25 minutes
Total 40 minutes
This peach tart with puff pastry starts with one sheet of dough, four ripe peaches, and about fifteen minutes of hands-on prep before it goes into the oven. The pastry puffs up around the fruit in about twenty-five minutes, turning deep gold at the edges while the peach juices thicken into a light glaze.
Servings 8 slices
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Cost $12

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry - about 14 oz / 400 g, thawed but still cold
  • 4 ripe peaches - about 3 cups / 450 g, pitted and sliced ¼ inch thick
  • â…“ cup granulated sugar - 65 g
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice - 15 ml
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 8 g
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon - 2 g
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 2 ml
  • fine salt - a pinch
  • 1 large egg - beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash
  • 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar - 25 g, for the crust edges
  • 2 tablespoons apricot preserves - 40 g, warmed, for the finishing glaze

Equipment

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Toss gently to coat and let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Unfold the thawed puff pastry onto the lined baking sheet. Score a line ¾ inch from the edge on all sides, cutting halfway through. Prick the center area with a fork.
  4. Drain excess liquid from the peaches. Arrange slices in overlapping rows inside the scored border, leaving the border bare. Spoon any remaining juice over the top.
  5. Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the egg wash only along the outer border of the pastry. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the border.
  6. Bake on the middle rack for 22 to 25 minutes, until the border is puffed and deep golden brown and the juices are bubbling. Rotate halfway through for even browning.
  7. Warm the apricot preserves until loose. Strain if desired, then brush a thin layer over the warm peaches. Cool on the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving1sliceCalories220kcalCarbohydrates30gProtein3gFat10gSaturated Fat4gCholesterol20mgSodium90mgFiber1gSugar14g

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry cold until filling to ensure even puffing.
  • Slice peaches consistently ¼ inch thick for even cooking.
  • Don’t skip the cornstarch—it thickens the peach juices into a glaze.
  • Drain excess liquid from the peaches before arranging to avoid a soggy center.
  • Score the border without cutting all the way through for a raised rim.
  • If your peaches are very juicy, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch.
  • Bake on the middle rack to ensure the bottom browns evenly.
  • Check at the 18-minute mark if your oven runs hot to prevent over-browning.
  • Use peaches that give slightly near the stem for the best flavor and texture.
  • Let peaches sit in sugar for no more than 10 minutes to avoid excess liquid.
  • A pizza cutter makes clean slices once the tart has cooled slightly.
  • Store leftover tart loosely covered at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to re-crisp the pastry; avoid microwaving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Final Thoughts

A peach tart with puff pastry is one of those desserts that looks far more complicated than it actually is. With one sheet of dough and a handful of ripe peaches, it comes together fast enough for a weeknight and still looks good enough for company.

Give this recipe a try the next time peaches are in season. If you make it, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo if you post it online.

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