Memorial Day weekend is the beginning of summer to me. So that means a lot of BBQ, salads, burgers, fresh berries, and watermelon. So are recipe for this week features fresh berries. It looks a lot more complicated than it is. So give it a try.
Fresh Berry and Almond tarts
1 package refrigerated pie crust
1 8oz package cream cheese
1/4 c confectioners sugar
1/4 t almond extract
2 c fresh blueberries
2 c fresh raspberries
1/4 c almonds, toasted
Preheat oven to 400
On a lightly floured surface roll out each pastry sheet until 1/8 thickness. Cut with a floured 3″ cookie cutter, making 8 circles. Transfer to a ungreased baking sheet, prick holes in pastry with a fork. Bake 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove from pan to rack and let cool completely.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, confectioners sugar, and almond extract, until blended. Spread over cooled pastries. Top with berries, pressing then into the cream cheese a little. Sprinkle with toasted almonds, and you can dust with extra confectioners sugar if you wish.
This recipe allowes for a lot of freedom, you can use strawberries, peaches, or even fresh mango’s if you want. Also you can add a little cocoa powder to the cream cheese mix if you like, to give it a different flavor.
Go enjoy your holiday weekend, have fun with your friends and family, and celebrate life.
