Dessert

Dates & Brie Upside-Down Tarts Recipe

Name: Dates & Brie Upside-Down Tarts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 puff pastry sheet; 1 pinch flour (for dusting); 27 Medjool dates, pitted; Olive oil, for brushing; 9 thick slices of brie cheese; 4 oz pancetta; 2 tbsp chopped chives; 3½ tbsp honey; 1½ tbsp white balsamic vinegar; 2 tsp crushed red peppers; 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

ByHarry Bern January 8, 2026January 8, 2026

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Introduction

These Dates & Brie Upside-Down Tarts combine sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in a delightful puff pastry treat. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sophisticated snack, they’re surprisingly easy to make.

The image shows square pieces of golden-brown toasted bread topped with melted creamy cheese that is slightly bubbly at the edges. On top of the cheese, there are small bits of crispy bacon or a similar garnish scattered all over, along with finely chopped fresh green herbs evenly spread. The bread pieces are placed on a white plate with two thin red rings around the edge. Bright orange and yellow edible flowers are placed on the plate beside the toasted bread squares, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the glossy texture of the melted cheese and the crispy bread edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 puff pastry sheet
1 pinch flour
27 medjool dates (pitted)
Olive oil (for brushing)
9 thick slices of brie
4 oz pancetta
2 tbsp chives
3½ tbsp honey
1½ tbsp white balsamic
2 tsp crushed red peppers
1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly dust a cutting board with flour to prevent sticking. Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut it into 9 equal squares.
Step 2: On a sheet of parchment paper, group the pitted dates into threes. Cover with another parchment sheet and gently press them together using a rolling pin until they form compact clusters.
Step 3: Brush olive oil on the edges of one side of each puff pastry square.
Step 4: Place the oiled side of each puff pastry square down onto a cluster of dates and press firmly to seal. Use a fork to pinch the edges and brush the tops with olive oil.
Step 5: Preheat a griddle to medium-low heat, aiming for a temperature between 375°F and 400°F.
Step 6: Cook the pancetta on the griddle until it turns golden and crispy, then set aside.
Step 7: Place the puff pastry tarts date-side down on the griddle with a lid on. Cook for 5–7 minutes, maintaining the temperature and then flip when golden. Cook the other side covered for another 5–6 minutes.
Step 8: Turn off the heat. Top each tart with a thick slice of brie and cover again. Allow them to sit for 3–4 minutes so the cheese melts.
Step 9: Meanwhile, prepare the hot honey glaze by combining honey, white balsamic, crushed red peppers, and fresh rosemary in a pan. Cook until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 10: Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the tarts, then top with the cooked pancetta and sprinkle with chives before serving.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the crushed red peppers in the honey glaze.
Substitute pancetta with crispy bacon or prosciutto for a different twist.
For a vegetarian option, skip the pancetta and add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
Ensure the puff pastry stays cold before cooking to achieve a flakier texture.

Storage

Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave just until warm to avoid sogginess. It’s best to enjoy these tarts fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows square flatbreads with a golden-brown crust, each topped with melted creamy cheese that has a smooth, shiny texture. There are scattered bits of crispy bacon and finely chopped green herbs sprinkled generously on top. Some flatbreads have thin slices of white cheese layered under the melted cheese. Edible orange and yellow flowers are used as decoration, adding a bright touch. The flatbreads are served on a white plate with a red stripe near the edge, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates for this recipe?

Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and sweetness, but you can use other varieties if pitted and soft. If your dates are hard, soak them briefly in warm water to soften before use.

What if I don’t have a griddle—can I bake the tarts instead?

Yes, you can bake the tarts in a preheated oven at 375°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired to brown both sides. Add brie at the end and bake for a few more minutes until melted.