Heart-Shaped Puff Pastry with Cheese

Name: Heart-Shaped Puff Pastry with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pastries
Ingredients: 1 package of puff pastry (thawed); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I love creating special treats that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat, and these heart-shaped puff pastries with cheese are a perfect example. Each bite bursts with gooey cheese nestled in flaky, golden pastry, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and some love, I can turn any occasion into a celebration. Whether it’s for Valentine's Day or a simple gathering, these pastries add a charming touch that everyone appreciates.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:49:35.193Z

During one of my most creative culinary moments, I decided to add a romantic twist to my usual puff pastry snacks. I experimented with different types of cheese, eventually landing on a delightful combination of creamy mozzarella and tangy feta. The heart shape isn’t just for looks; it adds a personal touch that makes the pastries feel special.

I also discovered that brushing the pastries with an egg wash before baking gives them that perfect golden color and extra crispiness. It’s such a simple step, yet it transforms the final presentation beautifully. My friends and family were amazed at how both simple and elegant these treats turned out to be!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flaky pastry with a delightful cheese filling.
Perfectly shaped hearts to impress your loved ones.
Quick to make, perfect for unexpected guests.

The Magic of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a culinary marvel that creates flaky layers through a process of lamination, where butter is folded into the dough repeatedly. When baked, it puffs up to create a light and airy texture that perfectly contrasts the creamy cheese filling. It’s essential to keep your pastry cold while working to ensure the butter stays solid. This will result in the best rise and texture, producing a golden finish that is truly mouthwatering.

For optimal results, work quickly with the puff pastry. If at any point it begins to feel too warm, pop it back in the refrigerator for a short while. This helps maintain the integrity of the layers. Having a sharp heart-shaped cookie cutter will give you clean edges, making the pastries look more professional and inviting.

Cheese Filling Considerations

The combination of mozzarella and feta cheese provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Mozzarella contributes a gooey, stretchy characteristic, while feta adds a savory tang that elevates the overall profile. Feel free to experiment by incorporating different cheeses; for example, a sharp cheddar could enhance the richness, or pepper jack might introduce a delightful kick. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as overly wet cheese can lead to soggy pastries.

Adding fresh herbs like parsley not only enhances the taste but also infuses a fresh aroma that complements the richness of the cheese. This dish can also be tailored for dietary preferences; for a vegan alternative, consider using plant-based cheeses, although it’s crucial to choose varieties known for melting well, like cashew cheese.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These heart-shaped puff pastries make for a stunning presentation whether you’re serving them at a romantic dinner or a festive gathering. Serving them with a light dipping sauce, such as a yogurt-based dip or a sweet chili sauce, can elevate the snacking experience. Garnish your platter with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an added touch of color and flavor.

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flaky texture. Place cooled pastries in an airtight container, and they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Simply place the sealed pastries in a freezer bag, and when you're ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

For the Cheese Filling

1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the cheese blend to your liking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, feta, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until combined.

Roll Out the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes.

Add the Filling

Place a small amount of the cheese filling in the center of half of the heart shapes. Be careful not to overfill.

Seal the Pastries

Top each filled heart with another pastry cut-out and gently press the edges together. Use a fork to seal them further.

Egg Wash

Brush the tops of each pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

Serve

Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Serve these delicious heart-shaped pastries as an appetizer or a delightful snack at your next gathering.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different cheese flavors or add herbs for an extra kick.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pastries don't puff up as expected, one common issue could be the temperature of the dough. If the butter has melted too much before baking, the layers won't separate and create that flaky texture. Ensure your ingredients remain cold, and also be cautious not to overcrowd the baking sheet, which can trap steam and hinder puffing.

In case any of the pastries burst open during baking, this can happen with overfilling. A small amount of filling is generally best; just enough to provide flavor without risking a blowout. For the future, consider sealing the edges more thoroughly with the fork or by twisting the dough for a tighter seal.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on the day of serving, you can prepare the pastries ahead of time. After assembling but before baking, place them on the lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to two hours. This helps in maintaining freshness, and you batch prep without compromising quality.

For a longer storage option, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pastries. They can last for up to a month in the freezer. When it’s time to bake, no need to thaw them out; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time until they are perfectly golden and puffed.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings by simply doubling or tripling the ingredients. Keep in mind the size of your working space when rolling out more pastry; it might be helpful to work in batches. Always use a large, flat area for cutting and prepare separate baking sheets for a smoother process.

If you want to scale down the recipe, remember that using half of the filling may still fill several shapes. Just ensure you still roll out enough pastry to make the hearts. This flexibility allows you to cater your baking to fit various occasions without compromising on the joy of making these delightful treats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe quicker and easier.

→ How do I store leftover pastries?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze these pastries?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked pastries. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with these puff pastries?

They pair well with a simple salad or can be served alongside a variety of dipping sauces.