Pin 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 favorite in my household every Valentines Day bringing a special touch to our celebrations.
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- Place 8 hearts on the prepared baking sheet. In the center of each, place a heaping teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture (prepared in step 4), leaving a 1 cm border.
- Step 4:
- In a bowl, mix goat cheese, crème fraîche, honey, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, chives, basil, and roasted red peppers until smooth.
- Step 5:
- 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.
- Step 6:
- Brush the tops of the hearts with more beaten egg. If desired, use a small knife to score delicate patterns.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven and cool slightly.
- Step 8:
- Arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with microgreens and drizzle with a little honey before serving.
Pin This recipe inspires warm family moments and celebrations every Valentines Day with loved ones.
Notes
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. Pair with a crisp sparkling rosé or dry white wine.
Required Tools
Rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, heart-shaped cookie cutter (approx. 7 cm), mixing bowls, pastry brush, fork
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.
Pin This delightful recipe adds a romantic flair to your special occasions and is simple enough to make any day memorable.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pastry is best for this dish?
All-butter puff pastry is recommended for its flakiness and rich flavor, enhancing the crisp texture of the hearts.
- → Can I use a different cheese in the filling?
Yes, substituting goat cheese with ricotta or cream cheese works well and maintains the creamy texture.
- → How do the herbs affect the flavor?
Fresh chives and basil add herbal brightness that complements the sweet roasted peppers and creamy cheese for a balanced taste.
- → Is there a way to make this suitable for vegans?
Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and plant-based crème fraîche substitutes to maintain the creamy filling without animal products.
- → What is the best way to serve these puff pastry hearts?
Serve warm, garnished with microgreens and a light honey drizzle, alongside a crisp sparkling rosé or dry white wine for a refined pairing.
