Heart-Shaped Puff Pastry with Cheese

Name: Heart-Shaped Puff Pastry with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making these heart-shaped puff pastries stuffed with cheese. They are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious! The flaky pastry combined with melted cheese creates a heavenly bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a romantic dinner or a casual gathering, these pastries are sure to impress. The best part is how easy they are to make, and they always turn out beautifully. I'm excited to share this recipe that has quickly become a favorite in our household!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:21:36.950Z

When I first tried making heart-shaped puff pastry, I was amazed by how quickly they came together and how impressive they looked. I used a combination of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella for the filling, which resulted in a rich, creamy texture that's hard to resist. It's truly satisfying to watch the pastries puff up in the oven, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible!

One of my favorite tips for perfecting these pastries is to refrigerate the puff pastry before cutting it into shapes. This ensures that they maintain their structure while baking, giving you that delightful airy texture. I've experimented with different cheese blends, and I always find that adding a hint of garlic or herbs elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky and buttery crust that melts in your mouth
Cheesy filling that's rich and satisfying
Adorable heart shape perfect for special occasions
Quick and easy to prepare, yet looks impressive

      

Understanding Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a crucial element of this recipe, providing the flaky, buttery base that pairs beautifully with the cheesy filling. When working with puff pastry, ensure it's fully thawed to prevent tearing while rolling it out. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use, as this allows for easier handling. Additionally, keeping your work surface lightly floured will help maintain the pastry's integrity as you cut out the heart shapes.

The success of your pastries also depends on a good blind baking process if you prefer an even crisper base. For this particular recipe, that step isn't necessary, but if you're experimenting with fillings that are wetter, pre-baking the bottom layer of puff pastry for about 5-7 minutes could help prevent sogginess. As a visual cue, you want the edges of the pastry to appear slightly golden before adding your filling.

Cheese Filling Tips

The heart of this pastry lies in its cheese filling. Using cream cheese as a base offers a creamy texture that complements the mozzarella's stretchiness. This combination creates a filling that not only tastes great but also holds its structure without leaking out during baking. I prefer mixing in fresh herbs like chives or parsley because they infuse a delightful flavor that elevates the overall taste of the pastry. Be sure to chop the herbs finely for an even distribution.

Adjusting the seasoning in the cheese filling can alter the flavor profile significantly. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a kick, while some grated Parmesan can intensify the cheesiness. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for added tang without losing a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that this could make the mixture slightly more watery, so balance is key.

Ingredients:

Puff Pastry:

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

Cheese Filling:

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like chives or parsley), chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before working with it for the best results.

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Shape the Pastries

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes. Place half of the hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add the Filling

Spoon a small amount of the cheese filling onto the center of each heart on the baking sheet. Be careful not to overfill.

Seal the Pastries

Top each filled heart with another heart-shaped pastry piece. Press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and brush the tops with the beaten egg.

Bake the Pastries

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the pastries for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These heart-shaped puff pastries can be prepared in advance, making them a great option for entertaining. You can assemble the pastries completely and freeze them unbaked. Just arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.

If you have any leftovers (which rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes can help maintain that delicious flaky texture, restoring the crispness that microwave reheating can compromise.

Serving Suggestions

These heart-shaped pastries not only shine at dinner parties but also make for delightful appetizers at any gathering. For serving, I recommend accompanying them with a fresh herb dip or a zesty marinara sauce for an exciting flavor contrast. Additionally, a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette can balance the rich cheese filling beautifully.

For more variations, consider adding cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese filling for added depth. This not only enhances the flavor but also introduces vibrant colors that make the pastries even more appealing on a platter. You could also experiment with different cheeses; feta or goat cheese can provide a bold twist to the classic combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or feta.

→ How do I store leftover pastries?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make these pastries ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with these pastries?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, some marinara sauce for dipping, or simply enjoyed on their own!