Save 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 appetizer was a hit on our last Valentines Day gathering and made the evening extra special.
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 15–18 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.
Save This recipe always brings smiles and a little romance to our family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these pastries with a chilled sparkling rosé or a dry white wine for a delightful appetizer experience.
Vegan Alternatives
For a vegan version, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based cheeses and creams.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Save This elegant appetizer is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicate flavors.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of cheese is used in the filling?
Fresh goat cheese is combined with crème fraîche to create a creamy and tangy filling balanced by honey and herbs.
- → Can these pastries be made vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream substitute to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I prevent the pastries from becoming soggy?
Ensure the puff pastry is thawed but cold, roll it thinly, and avoid overfilling. Baking until golden helps keep them crisp.
- → What wine pairs well with these appetizers?
A crisp sparkling rosé or a dry white wine complements the rich, creamy filling and flaky pastry nicely.
- → Can I prepare these pastries ahead of time?
Assemble the pastries and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.