Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets: 5 Sweet Reasons to Indulge

Name: Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets: 5 Sweet Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 egg yolk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi); 1/2 cup cream cheese; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 29, 2025

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my new obsession: Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets! These little gems are not just a delight to eat but they’re also super easy to whip up. I love how they transform fresh fruits into a stunning dessert that looks like it came straight from a fancy bakery, but you can make them right in your own kitchen in no time! Seriously, the air fryer is a game changer. It gives the tartlet shells that perfect golden crunch while keeping everything inside beautifully moist.

Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets - detail 1

Just last week, I made a batch for a small gathering with friends, and they were a hit! Everyone was raving about the fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi on top of the fluffy cream cheese filling. It brought back sweet memories of summer picnics, when we used to enjoy fruit tarts at the park. And the best part? You can customize them with whatever seasonal fruits you have on hand! So, whether you’re treating yourself or making something special for loved ones, these tartlets are sure to impress. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Ingredients List

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup softened butter
1 egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mixed fresh fruits (like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi)
1/2 cup cream cheese
2 tablespoons powdered sugar

How to Prepare Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer warmed up! Preheating it to 320°F (160°C) is super important because it helps create that perfect golden crunch on the tartlet shells. Trust me, skipping this step can result in uneven cooking, and we definitely want our tartlets to shine! Just pop it on for about 5 minutes while you get everything else ready.

Make the Tartlet Dough

Now, let’s dive into making the dough! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Give it a good stir so everything’s mixed well. Then, add in 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1 egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I like to use my hands for this part – it feels good to really work the ingredients together until it’s all combined into a nice dough. It should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too crumbly, don’t hesitate to add a tiny splash of water.

Shape the Tartlet Shells

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to shape those adorable tartlet shells! Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Then, flatten each ball gently in the palm of your hand or on a clean surface, forming little discs. Aim for even shapes so they cook uniformly. If you want to get fancy, you can press them into a mini tartlet pan for that classic look!

Cook the Tartlet Shells

Carefully place your formed tartlet shells in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching. This will help them crisp up nicely! Cook them at 320°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them, especially around the 8-minute mark, as air fryers can vary. A little tip: if you gently press on the edges and they feel firm, they’re ready!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While those shells are cooking, let’s whip up the creamy filling! In a separate bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. You’ll want to make sure there are no lumps, as we want that filling to be silky. This is where you can get creative too – a splash of vanilla or a hint of lemon zest can elevate the flavor!

Assemble the Tartlets

Once your tartlet shells are out and cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble! Fill each shell generously with the cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Now for the fun part – top them off with your mixed fresh fruits! I love a mix of vibrant strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy these beauties immediately, or chill them in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets turn out absolutely perfect every time! First off, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese filling. If you prefer a sweeter bite, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar. Conversely, if you want to keep it light, feel free to cut back a bit.

When it comes to fruit, use whatever is in season for the best flavor! Fresh berries, mango, or even peaches can add a delightful twist. Just remember to chop larger fruits into smaller pieces so they fit nicely on top and don’t overpower the tartlet.

Storage is also key! If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious), pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but keep in mind the fruit may start to release some moisture. If you want to prep ahead, you can make the tartlet shells in advance and fill them just before serving to keep everything crispy.

And lastly, have fun with it! Experiment with different flavors and toppings, and don’t be afraid to make these tartlets your own. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets, it’s always good to be mindful of the nutritional aspect! Each tartlet is approximately 150 calories, making them a sweet yet relatively light treat. However, keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these numbers as a general guideline rather than a strict rule.

Here’s a quick breakdown per tartlet:

Calories: 150
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg

As you dive into making these delightful tartlets, remember that adjusting ingredients like sugar and cream cheese can change the overall nutritional profile, so feel free to tailor them to fit your dietary preferences. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen fruits?

Absolutely! You can use frozen fruits in your Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Frozen fruits tend to release more moisture when thawed, which can make your tartlets a bit soggy if you’re not careful. If you go this route, I recommend thawing the fruits first and patting them dry with a paper towel before using them to top your tartlets. This way, you’ll still get that delicious burst of fruity flavor without compromising the texture of your tartlets!

How do I store leftover tartlets?

Storing leftover tartlets is super simple! Just place them in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the fruit can release moisture over time, which might make the tartlet shells a little softer. If you want to maintain that delightful crunch, it’s best to fill the tartlet shells just before serving. But trust me, they’re so tasty that leftovers are usually a rare occurrence!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make the dough ahead of time! It’s a great way to save time on busy days. Just prepare the dough as usual, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, and then shape your tartlet shells as directed. This little prep hack makes it so easy to whip up fresh tartlets whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up these delightful tartlets in no time!
Easy to Make: The simple steps make this recipe perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers.
Flavorful & Fresh: Using seasonal fruits ensures every bite bursts with juicy goodness, paired perfectly with creamy filling.
Versatile: Feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits or even add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a sweet treat for a casual gathering or an elegant dessert for a special event, these tartlets fit right in!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets, there are a few delightful accompaniments that can take them to the next level! A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light, airy touch that complements the tartness of the fresh fruits beautifully. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is an excellent choice too—imagine that creamy contrast against the crispy tartlet shell!

For a bit of extra flair, consider a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top. It not only enhances the presentation but also adds a rich sweetness that balances the fruity flavors. And don’t forget a sprinkle of mint leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor! These simple additions can elevate your tartlets from delicious to absolutely spectacular.

Equipment List

Before you start whipping up these delightful Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets, let’s make sure you have all the right tools on hand! Here’s a simple list of what you’ll need:

Air Fryer: Any model will do, but I personally love my Philips Air Fryer for its consistent cooking. If you have a Cosori Air Fryer or an Instant Pot Vortex, those work great too!
Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will help you mix your dough and cream cheese filling easily.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting your tartlets just right, so don’t forget these!
Wooden Spoon or Rubber Spatula: Perfect for mixing your ingredients together without damaging your bowls.
Rolling Pin: If you want to flatten your dough evenly, a rolling pin can be super helpful, though you can also just use your hands.
Mini Tartlet Pan (optional): If you’re aiming for that classic tartlet shape, a mini tartlet pan can add a lovely touch, but it’s totally optional!
Spatula: A small spatula will help you transfer your tartlet shells from the air fryer with ease.

With these simple tools, you’ll be all set to create your beautiful tartlets! Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets is their versatility! You can easily switch things up to match your taste buds or the season. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Fruit Swaps: While I love the classic mix of strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, feel free to experiment with other fruits! Ripe peaches, juicy mangoes, or even tart apples can be fantastic choices. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy topping.
Spice It Up: Want to add a little warmth to your tartlets? Consider mixing in some spices! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cream cheese filling can elevate the flavor beautifully. You could even try adding a hint of cardamom for an exotic twist!
Different Fillings: If you’re a cream cheese lover, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt to the filling for a tangy kick. Alternatively, you can swap the cream cheese for a rich chocolate ganache or a whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option!
Nutty Touch: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top of your fruit before serving. It adds a delightful texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits.
Chocolate Drizzle: Feeling indulgent? Drizzle some melted chocolate over the assembled tartlets for a decadent finish. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with fruits and adds a rich contrast!

The possibilities are endless! These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to make the tartlets uniquely yours. So go ahead, mix and match, and have fun creating your perfect Air Fryer Fruit Tartlets!