Save 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.
My family always looks forward to this dish for Valentines Day, enjoying the 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). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of 3 mm. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter (about 7 cm wide), cut out 16 hearts.
- Assemble Filling:
- In a bowl, mix goat cheese, crème fraîche, honey, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, chives, basil, and roasted red peppers until smooth.
- Fill Pastry:
- Place 8 hearts on the prepared baking sheet. In the center of each, place a heaping teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture leaving a 1 cm border.
- Seal Hearts:
- Brush the border of each heart on the baking sheet with beaten egg. Top with a second heart and gently press the edges to seal. Use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges.
- Egg Wash and Decorate:
- Brush the tops of the hearts with more beaten egg. If desired, use a small knife to score delicate patterns.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven and cool slightly.
- Serve:
- Arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with microgreens and drizzle with a little honey before serving.
Save This recipe has become a heartfelt tradition in our family gatherings, bringing smiles and lovely memories.
Notes
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. Pair with a crisp sparkling rosé or dry white wine.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk, Egg, Wheat (gluten). May contain traces of nuts check pastry packaging. If unsure about ingredients always check labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per pastry calories 145, total fat 8 g, carbohydrates 14 g, protein 4 g.
Save This elegant appetizer is a truly delightful way to celebrate a special occasion with loved ones.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the puff pastry from shrinking while baking?
Ensure the pastry is well chilled before rolling and avoid over-handling. Docking with a fork and baking in a hot oven helps maintain shape and achieve crispiness.
- → Can I substitute goat cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, mild cheeses like ricotta or cream cheese work well, offering a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
- → What herbs enhance the filling’s flavor?
Fresh chives and basil provide a bright, aromatic balance to the richness of the cheese and sweetness of the roasted peppers.
- → Is there a way to make these heart pastries vegan?
Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based cream alternatives, and substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk or oil for brushing.
- → How long should these pastries be baked for optimal texture?
Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 15–18 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden for a crisp exterior and tender filling.