Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts
Ingredients:
1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries, sliced
4 oz dark chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
Directions:
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and use a heart-shaped cutter (or any shape you prefer) to cut out your pastry hearts. Place the hearts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Egg Wash: Brush the puff pastry hearts with the egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.
Bake the Pastry: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Whipped Cream Filling: While the pastry is cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Hearts: Once the pastry hearts have cooled slightly, spread a generous dollop of the whipped cream on top of one heart and layer with fresh strawberry slices. Top with another puff pastry heart to form a sandwich.
Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a finishing touch. Optionally, dust with extra powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes prep, 15 minutes bake | Servings: 8-10 | Calories: ~250 per serving