Pin this A romantic and elegant appetizer featuring crisp puff pastry hearts intertwined and filled with creamy goat cheese, sweet roasted peppers, and fresh herbs—perfect for sharing with your loved one.
This recipe has become a romantic staple for our Valentines Day celebrations, impressing guests with its delicate flavors and charming presentation.
Ingredients
- Pastry: 1 sheet (approx. 250 g) all-butter puff pastry, thawed, 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Filling: 120 g fresh goat cheese, 2 tbsp crème fraîche, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 60 g roasted red peppers, finely diced, 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped, Pinch of salt
- Garnish (optional): Microgreens or baby arugula, Extra honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and cut pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of 3 mm and cut out 16 hearts using a 7 cm wide heart-shaped cookie cutter.
- Arrange and fill:
- Place 8 hearts on the baking sheet and add a heaping teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture leaving a 1 cm border.
- Prepare filling:
- Mix goat cheese, crème fraîche, honey, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, chives, basil, and roasted red peppers until smooth.
- Assemble hearts:
- Brush egg wash on borders of each heart on the baking sheet, top with a second heart, press edges to seal, and crimp with a fork.
- Finish topping:
- Brush tops of the hearts with more egg wash and optionally score patterns with a small knife.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until puffed and golden brown, then cool slightly.
- Serve:
- Arrange on a platter, garnish with microgreens, and drizzle with honey before serving.
Pin this Making these pastries together has become a cherished tradition, bringing warmth and joy to our Valentines Day celebrations.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these pastries with a crisp sparkling rosé or a dry white wine for a perfect romantic appetizer.
Variations
For a vegan alternative, substitute dairy-free cheese and plant-based cream to maintain rich flavors without animal products.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to preserve crispness.
Pin this These puff pastry hearts add an elegant and heartfelt touch to any Valentines Day celebration.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese enhances the filling’s flavor?
Fresh goat cheese brings a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of roasted peppers and fresh herbs.
- → Can these puff pastry hearts be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate before baking to maintain freshness and easy preparation.
- → What baking temperature ensures a golden crust?
Baking at 200°C (390°F) for 15-18 minutes produces a puffed and perfectly golden crust.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for goat cheese?
Ricotta or cream cheese can be used as alternatives for a milder flavor and similar creamy texture.
- → How can these pastries be garnished for presentation?
Sprinkle microgreens or baby arugula on top and drizzle with honey to add freshness and a hint of sweetness.
- → Is there a vegan option for this dish?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and plant-based cream alternatives to create a vegan variation without losing flavor.