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 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup of shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or chives)

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I absolutely adore creating these heart-shaped puff pastries filled with cheese! They're perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy as a delightful snack. The light, flaky pastry combined with gooey, melted cheese creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone loves. I like to experiment with different types of cheese to find the perfect flavor combination. This recipe is not only fast but also incredibly satisfying, as it brings a touch of elegance to any meal or gathering.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:13:35.058Z

When I first decided to make heart-shaped puff pastries, it was for a special dinner with friends. I wanted something fun and unique, and this recipe came together quickly and effortlessly. Using store-bought puff pastry saved me so much time, allowing me to focus on perfecting the cheesy filling. It was a hit, and every guest wanted to know my secret!

Through my experimentation with different fillings, I found that incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary elevates the flavor profile immensely. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these pastries are always a crowd-pleaser and the perfect way to express a bit of love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
Rich and cheesy filling that satisfies any craving
A fun and charming shape perfect for celebrations

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial in achieving the perfect balance of flavors in these heart-shaped pastries. Mozzarella offers a mild, creamy texture that melts beautifully, while cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor. For a gourmet twist, consider blending in some goat cheese for added tartness or incorporating herbs like rosemary into the filling for an aromatic boost. This customization allows you to cater the pastries to your taste preference, ensuring a delightful snack every time.

When mixing your cheese filling, aim for a mix of textures, using both shredded and cubed cheese. The cubed cheese will create little pockets of gooey delight, while the shredded will melt seamlessly, providing a luxurious mouthfeel. Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheese combinations until you find the mix that speaks to your palate.

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is key to achieving that wonderfully flaky texture, so handle it with care. When rolling it out, use a light touch and ensure that your surface and rolling pin are floured to prevent sticking. This helps maintain those precious layers that will puff beautifully in the oven. If your dough becomes too warm, chill it briefly to make it easier to work with and to maintain its structure during baking.

After cutting out your hearts, ensure you gather and re-roll any pastry scraps only once. Overworking can lead to tough pastry instead of the desired flaky texture. Always remember to seal your pastries well—using a fork to crimp the edges not only helps keep the filling secure but also adds a charming decorative touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful pastries:

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup of shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or chives)

Make sure all your ingredients are ready and prepared before you start assembling the pastries!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your heart-shaped pastries:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes. You should get about 12 hearts.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded cheese with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. If desired, reserve a little cheese for topping.

Assemble the Pastries

Place half of the heart shapes on the baking sheet. Spoon a tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each heart. Cover with the remaining hearts and press the edges to seal, using a fork to crimp.

Brush and Bake

Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle the reserved cheese on top. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious heart-shaped pastries warm!

Serve your pastries with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, if desired. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different cheeses and herbs to customize the filling. You can also add cooked ham or veggies for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These heart-shaped puff pastries can be made ahead of time, which is a fantastic option for parties or gatherings. After assembling and crimping your pastries, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them before baking. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored this way for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure a perfect golden brown finish.

If you're short on time, consider preparing the cheese filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you prep time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The night before, simply roll out your pastry and assemble the heart shapes quickly before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These charming heart pastries are versatile and can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a great addition to any spread. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. They also make a fantastic finger food option for gatherings, offering both a visual and tasty treat that guests will adore.

For an extra touch, serve these pastries with a side of marinara sauce or herb-infused olive oil for dipping. The contrasting flavors will elevate the dining experience, inviting guests to enjoy each bite. Offering a variety of cheeses or toppings can entice guests to create their own flavor combinations, making your event even more interactive and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade puff pastry can be used but make sure it is well-chilled for easy handling.

→ What types of cheese work best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda are excellent choices as they melt well.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven for best results.