These Flaky Puff Pastry Hearts are the perfect Valentine’s Day dessert or a sweet treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients like puff pastry, butter, and hazelnut cream, you can create a stunning and delicious pastry in no time. These golden, crispy hearts are filled with luscious hazelnut cream and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for gifting or indulging yourself!
What Are Puff Pastry Hearts?
Puff Pastry Hearts are delightful bite-sized pastries made from buttery, flaky puff pastry layers that are baked until golden and crisp. These delicate treats are then filled with hazelnut cream and dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. They are similar to classic cream puffs, but much easier to make!
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Made with store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
- Light and flaky: The perfect balance of crispiness and creamy filling.
- Customizable: Fill with hazelnut cream, jam, or even whipped cream.
- Great for special occasions: Ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or brunches.
Pro Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Hearts
- Chill the puff pastry before cutting for sharper heart shapes.
- Use an egg wash for a beautifully golden and glossy finish.
- Let the pastries cool before filling to prevent melting the hazelnut cream.
- Experiment with fillings like raspberry jam, vanilla custard, or whipped cream.
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Yes! Just thaw it according to package instructions before using.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Try strawberry jam, lemon curd, or a vanilla pastry cream for a different twist.
How Do I Make Them Extra Crispy?
Bake the puff pastry on a preheated baking sheet to help it crisp up evenly.
Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?
You can bake the pastry hearts in advance and fill them right before serving for the best texture.
How Do I Prevent The Pastry From Getting Soggy?
Let them cool completely before filling and avoid overfilling.
How to Store Puff Pastry Hearts
Store the unfilled puff pastry hearts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If filled, refrigerate them in a covered container for up to 24 hours.
How to Freeze Puff Pastry Hearts
Freeze the unbaked pastry hearts on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven and add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Ingredients
How To Make Flaky Puff Pastry Hearts
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Unroll one sheet of puff pastry and brush the surface with melted butter.
Unroll one sheet of puff pastry and brush the surface with melted butter.
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Place the second puff pastry sheet on top, press gently.
Place the second puff pastry sheet on top, press gently.
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Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
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Transfer the hearts to a baking tray, then brush with egg yolk for a golden finish. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Transfer the hearts to a baking tray, then brush with egg yolk for a golden finish. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Allow the pastries to cool, then fill with hazelnut cream using a piping bag.
Allow the pastries to cool, then fill with hazelnut cream using a piping bag.
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Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy!
Sprinkle with powdered sugar and enjoy!
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