If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s as charming as it is scrumptious, these Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to desserts. Light, flaky puff pastry cut into perfect hearts and topped with a sweet, creamy icing creates a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that’s ideal for any special occasion or an everyday indulgence. The subtle cinnamon hints and the smooth vanilla icing call for celebration in every bite, making these heart-shaped pastries both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple but meaningful is the secret here. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute to that perfect balance between flaky texture, sweet flavor, and delightful appearance.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): The base of our hearts, providing delicate layers and buttery crispness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a light sweetness and helps the pastry develop a golden crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Offers a gentle warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Key for creating the smooth, sweet icing that tops the hearts.
- 1–2 tablespoons milk: Perfectly thins the icing to the right consistency for drizzling or spreading.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the icing with a fragrant, rich note that elevates the entire dessert.
- Red or pink food coloring (optional): Adds a festive pop of color, perfect for occasions like Valentine’s Day.
How to Make Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote easy cleanup. Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to avoid any sticking and gently smooth out the creases without overworking the dough. This sets the stage for the pastry’s perfect puff.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Cinnamon
Sprinkle the puff pastry with granulated sugar and, if you’re using it, a touch of ground cinnamon. This combination not only enhances flavor but also helps create a delightful crispy top when baked. Use a rolling pin to gently roll the dough, smoothing it out and ensuring the sugar and cinnamon are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cut Out the Hearts
Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut hearts out of the prepared dough sheet. Arrange the hearts on your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each heart slightly apart so they have room to puff up beautifully during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the hearts in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and a gorgeous golden brown. This baking process is what transforms simple dough and sugar into those light, airy, flaky bites of joy.
Step 5: Mix the Icing
While your pastries cool completely, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and luscious. If you want to make things extra festive, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to your icing and blend well.
Step 6: Ice Your Puff Pastry Hearts
Once cooled, drizzle or spread your icing over each puff pastry heart. Let the icing set before serving to ensure it forms a lovely, slightly firm glaze that’s perfect for dipping or enjoying on its own.
How to Serve Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle your frosted hearts with colorful sanding sugar or edible glitter for a festive sparkle. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, also make a beautiful and delicious garnish to contrast the sweetness with a hint of tartness.
Side Dishes
Pair these puff pastry hearts with a cup of hot coffee, a rich latte, or a smooth cup of tea. For an added treat, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the flaky pastry and sweet icing.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your hearts on a pretty platter with doilies underneath for a charming presentation. You can also thread them onto sticks to make puff pastry heart pops — perfect for parties or gifting. Another fun idea is to package them in clear boxes tied with a ribbon as homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these puff pastry hearts stay fresh and flaky for up to two days. Be sure to keep them separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking and retain their texture.
Freezing
You can freeze baked and iced Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe for up to a month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you prefer warm puff pastry hearts, reheat in a low oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry crisp instead of soggy. Only reheat before icing if you intend to refresh the topping afterward.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely according to package instructions before rolling and cutting out your hearts for the best puff and texture.
Is it necessary to add cinnamon to the sugar?
No, cinnamon is optional. It adds warmth and depth but the puff pastry hearts are delicious even with just sugar and icing.
How thick should I roll out the puff pastry?
You want to gently smooth and slightly thin the dough to ensure even puffing — about 1/8 inch works well without making the hearts too fragile.
Can I make the icing dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the milk for any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and keep the rest of the icing ingredients the same for a dairy-free version.
What’s the best way to cut out the heart shapes?
A sharp, metal heart-shaped cookie cutter works best to get clean edges and help your puff pastry hearts hold their shape through baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about creating Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe from scratch — the way the flaky layers resonate with the sweet vanilla glaze makes every bite a little moment of joy. Whether you’re sharing with friends, celebrating a holiday, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a simple yet elegant way to brighten any day. Give it a try, and watch it become your new favorite indulgence!
Print
Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 hearts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Puff Pastry Hearts with Icing are a charming and festive dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Featuring flaky puff pastry hearts baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet vanilla icing, they are easy to make and delightfully delicious. Optional cinnamon and food coloring add extra flavor and a romantic touch.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Hearts
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red or pink food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll and Cut Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Lightly sprinkle the surface with granulated sugar and, if desired, the ground cinnamon for extra flavor. Gently roll out the dough to smooth the creases and slightly thin it to create an even thickness for baking.
- Shape and Bake: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out hearts from the rolled pastry. Carefully place the hearts on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for puffing. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the pastry hearts are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool the Pastry: Remove the baked puff pastry hearts from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is important before applying the icing to prevent it from melting.
- Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and thick. Add a few drops of red or pink food coloring if desired for a festive look.
- Decorate the Hearts: Drizzle or gently spread the prepared icing over the cooled puff pastry hearts. Allow the icing to set before serving to ensure it hardens slightly and doesn’t run.
Notes
- You can add sprinkles or sanding sugar on top of the icing for a festive decoration.
- Store the puff pastry hearts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- For best results, use puff pastry that is properly thawed but still cold before rolling.
