Short Description
Sweeten your day with these delightful puff pastry hearts filled with fluffy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and drizzled with decadent dark chocolate. They deliver a perfect combination of flaky pastry, fruity brightness, and creamy indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Elegant and charming, ideal for special occasions or a romantic treat.
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Quick and simple—ready in under 30 minutes using store-bought puff pastry.
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Light yet indulgent, balancing crisp pastry, fresh fruit, and rich chocolate.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
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Egg, beaten with water (egg wash)
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Heavy whipping cream
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Fresh strawberries, sliced
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Dark chocolate, melted
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Frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
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Vanilla extract
Directions
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Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat to 375 °F (190 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Cut Pastry Hearts: Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a heart-shaped cutter to make 6–8 hearts.
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Egg Wash: Lightly brush each heart with the beaten egg and water mixture.
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Bake: Arrange hearts on the prepared sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly.
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Make Whipped Cream: In a bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
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Assemble Hearts: Slice each heart horizontally. Spread whipped cream on the bottom halves, top with strawberry slices.
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Finish & Serve: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate, place the top halves back on, dust with powdered sugar, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Yield: 6–8 hearts (depending on cutter size)
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Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
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Baking Time: 12–15 minutes
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Total Time: About 30 minutes
Variations
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Berry Mix: Substitute or add blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches with the strawberries.
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Chocolate Base: Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache on the pastry base before adding cream.
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Cream Cheese Filling: Mix 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese into the whipped cream for a richer taste.
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Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the whipped cream for a nutty aroma.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. However, assembled hearts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
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Reheating Pastry Shells: Reheat cooled baked shells in a low oven (300 °F / 150 °C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness before filling. Do not reheat with cream and fruit together.
FAQs
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for its ability to whip into stable peaks. Half-and-half won’t hold as well.
2. Do I need to thaw puff pastry fully?
Yes, fully thawed pastry ensures even puffing. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature as instructed on the package.
3. Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes. Bake and store the pastry shells separately in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Whip the cream just before assembly.
4. What size heart cutter should I use?
A cutter yielding ~3–4 inch hearts works well for 1–2 bite servings. Adjust for desired size and quantity.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—use a gluten-free puff pastry and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
6. How can I decorate them differently?
Top with fresh mint leaves, dust with cocoa powder, or add colored sprinkles for festive flair.
7. What type of dark chocolate is best?
A 60–70% cocoa dark chocolate balances nicely. Choose a smooth variety that melts easily.
8. Can I use frozen strawberries?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries. Frozen berries will release excess moisture and soften the pastry.
9. Can these be made dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar and a dairy-free puff pastry alternative.
10. Are they suitable for a brunch menu?
Absolutely. These make a charming brunch dessert or sweet addition to a celebratory spread.
Conclusion
Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts are an effortless yet elegant dessert that impresses with minimal effort. Featuring golden puff pastry, airy whipped cream, and juicy strawberries, these treats are perfect for special moments or simply lending a touch of sweetness to any day.
[tasty-recipe id=”19764″]