Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto

Name: Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 hearts
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Flour for dusting

Highlighted under: Cozy Ideas

I absolutely adore making Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto for gatherings or cozy nights in. The light, flaky texture of the pastry beautifully complements the vibrant, herby flavor of the pesto. It's a delightful combination that never fails to impress friends and family alike. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also look stunning on any table. I promise this recipe will bring joy to your palate and a smile to your face as you savor the delicious bites.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:49:34.577Z

When I first made Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto, I was astounded by how effortlessly they came together. The key is to use high-quality puff pastry—make sure it's fully thawed, as this ensures the layers rise beautifully while baking. I also like to brush a bit of egg wash on top just before baking for a golden finish that adds both texture and flavor.

Another tip I discovered is to use homemade pesto if you can. The freshness of a homemade mix adds an extra layer of depth that store-bought just can't compete with. However, if time is short, a good quality store-bought pesto works perfectly, too. These hearts are definitely a showstopper!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky, golden pastry that melts in your mouth
Vibrant and aromatic pesto that adds a fresh punch
Perfect for entertaining or a quick appetizer

      

Perfecting Your Puff Pastry

When working with puff pastry, it's crucial to keep it cold to achieve that signature flaky texture. If your kitchen is warm, you might want to chill the rolled-out pastry in the fridge for about 10 minutes before cutting the hearts. This will help prevent the layers from melding together during baking, resulting in a beautifully puffed pastry.

Be mindful not to overwork the dough when rolling it out. A light touch is key to keep the layers intact. Aim for precise cuts with your heart-shaped cookie cutter, applying even pressure to avoid squashing the pastry. If you don't have a heart-shaped cutter, any shape will work, and you can still achieve that elegant look!

Handling Pesto with Care

The pesto is a star ingredient in this dish, contributing both moisture and flavor to the pastry. If you’re using store-bought pesto, look for one that has a bright green color and fresh herb aroma to ensure vibrant taste. Homemade pesto can take this dish to another level; consider using fresh basil, pine nuts, and quality extra virgin olive oil for a truly authentic flavor.

To prevent the pesto from causing the pastry to become soggy during baking, use it sparingly. A teaspoon on each heart is sufficient. It's also important to ensure the pesto isn’t too oily. If it is, try mixing in a bit of grated Parmesan or breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture before spreading.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delightful Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto.

For the Puff Pastry Hearts

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Flour for dusting

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the pastry.

Assemble the Hearts

Spread a teaspoon of pesto on half of the heart shapes. Place another heart on top of each one and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Bake the Hearts

Brush the tops of the hearts with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden color. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Let the hearts cool slightly before serving. Enjoy their flaky goodness!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top just before baking. This will add an extra layer of richness to the flavor!

Serving Suggestions

These Puff Pastry Hearts with Pesto make a stunning appetizer for any gathering. Consider pairing them with a variety of dips such as marinara or a tangy yogurt sauce for a delightful contrast. They also work beautifully alongside a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette, adding freshness to your table presentation.

You can also serve these hearts as part of a larger charcuterie board. Their flaky texture and herbaceous flavor complement cured meats and soft cheeses, creating a unique snacking experience that encourages sharing and mingling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you would like to prepare these pastries in advance, you can assemble the hearts and freeze them before baking. Place the unbaked hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store for up to a month. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

For storage after baking, allow the pastries to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, for the best texture, I recommend enjoying them fresh. Reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes can help revive their flakiness if needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these hearts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hearts and refrigerate them before baking. Just brush with egg wash before baking.

→ What can I serve with Puff Pastry Hearts?

These hearts pair wonderfully with a light salad or a refreshing dip like tzatziki.

→ Can I freeze the prepared hearts?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked hearts. Just layer them between parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ How do I know when they are done baking?

The hearts are done when they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking!