Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts: Flaky, Creamy, and Drizzled with Chocolate

Golden puff pastry hearts filled with vanilla whipped cream and fresh strawberries, finished with a dark chocolate drizzle—perfect for Valentine’s Day, brunch, or sweet celebrations

Introduction: A Dessert That Feels Like a Love Letter

These Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts are the kind of dessert that makes people smile before they even take a bite. With their delicate shape, crisp layers, and luscious filling, they’re perfect for romantic occasions, spring gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something beautiful.

The combination of flaky pastry, lightly sweetened whipped cream, juicy strawberries, and rich chocolate creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a date night, a bridal shower, or a cozy afternoon tea, these hearts are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore what makes these hearts so irresistible:

Puff Pastry:

• Frozen puff pastry sheets (1 package, 17.3 oz, thawed)
  Light, flaky, and buttery—perfect for shaping and baking.

Tip: Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30–40 minutes.

Filling:

• Heavy whipping cream (½ cup)
  Whips into soft, pillowy peaks.
• Powdered sugar (2 tbsp)
  Sweetens and stabilizes the cream.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and depth.
• Fresh strawberries (sliced)
  Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.

Optional: Use raspberries or a mix of berries for variety.

Finishing Touch:

• Dark chocolate (4 oz, melted)
  Adds richness and elegance.

Optional: Use white chocolate or drizzle both for contrast.

Egg Wash:

• 1 egg + 1 tbsp water
  Brushed on pastry for a golden, glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

On a lightly floured surface:

• Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets.

Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out pastry hearts.

Place hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Tip: Re-roll scraps to make extra hearts.

Step 2: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl:

• Beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp water.

Brush lightly over each pastry heart.

Optional: Sprinkle with coarse sugar for sparkle.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, until:

• Puff pastry is golden
• Edges are crisp

Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Tip: Cool completely if assembling ahead of time.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream

In a chilled bowl:

• Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

Beat until soft peaks form.

Optional: Add lemon zest or almond extract for a twist.

Step 5: Assemble the Hearts

Take one cooled pastry heart:

• Spread a dollop of whipped cream
• Layer with sliced strawberries

Top with another pastry heart to form a sandwich.

Repeat with remaining hearts.

Tip: Use a piping bag for a neater finish.

Step 6: Drizzle with Chocolate

Melt dark chocolate in microwave or double boiler.

Drizzle over assembled hearts.

Dust with extra powdered sugar if desired.

Presentation Tip: Serve on a white platter with mint leaves or edible flowers.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Valentine’s Day
• Bridal showers
• Mother’s Day brunch
• Afternoon tea

Pair with:

• Sparkling rosé
• Earl Grey tea
• Vanilla bean ice cream

Tip: Serve chilled for a firmer texture or room temp for extra softness.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Chocolate Strawberry Hearts

Add a layer of chocolate ganache inside.

Coconut Cream

Swap whipped cream for coconut whipped cream.

Vegan Version

Use dairy-free puff pastry and whipped coconut cream.

Lemon Berry

Add lemon curd and mixed berries.

Mini Bites

Use a smaller cutter for bite-sized treats.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Bake pastry hearts up to 2 days in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store assembled hearts in airtight container for up to 24 hours.
• Freeze: Freeze baked pastry (unfilled) for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill before serving.

Tip: Keep whipped cream and strawberries separate until ready to assemble.

Nutrition Notes (Per Heart, ~1 of 10)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fat: ~16g
• Sugar: ~10g
• Sodium: ~120mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These treats are:

• Elegant
• Crowd-pleasing
• Kid-friendly
• Perfect for gifting

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Puff Pastry Hearts are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of love, flavor, and creativity. Whether you’re baking for someone special or just indulging in a little self-love, they’re guaranteed to bring joy.