With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, why not treat your loved ones to a delightful and easy-to-make dessert? These Fruity Cheese Pastry Hearts are not only delicious but also beautiful to look at, making them perfect for a romantic dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of sweet fruits and creamy cheese wrapped in flaky pastry creates a mouth-watering treat that is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe below:
Title: Fruity Cheese Pastry Hearts
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed fresh fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter. You’ll need an even number of hearts as they will be paired together to form the pastries.
4. Place half of the pastry hearts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
5. Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each heart on the baking sheet.
6. Top the cream cheese mixture with the chopped fresh fruits, distributing them evenly among the hearts.
7. Brush the edges of the pastry hearts with the beaten egg, then gently place the remaining pastry hearts on top of the fruit-topped hearts, pressing the edges together to seal.
8. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastry hearts, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
9. Brush the tops of the pastry hearts with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle granulated sugar over each one.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
11. Remove the Fruity Cheese Pastry Hearts from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These pastries are best enjoyed warm.
These Fruity Cheese Pastry Hearts are a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and flaky all in one bite. Whether you’re looking to impress your significant other or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion. Experiment with different fruit combinations to find your favorite flavor combination. Serve these pastries with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. Enjoy the love and sweetness baked into every heart-shaped pastry!
