Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely adore making Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles; they have become a staple at my gatherings. The flaky buttery pastry paired with a savory mushroom filling always impresses my guests. From the first bite, they fall in love with the rich earthiness of the mushrooms, balanced with the crispness of the pastry. These little hearts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!
When I first attempted creating Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles, I was amazed at how effortlessly delicious they turned out. The trick lies in the duxelles; sautéing the mushrooms until they're caramelized concentrates their flavor, adding an incredible depth to the dish. I always make sure to season the mix well before filling the pastry, as it really brings out the earthy notes.
Another tip I learned along the way is to keep the puff pastry chilled until it’s ready to be baked. This ensures the layers rise properly, giving you that delightful texture that everyone loves. It’s become one of my go-to appetizers because of how elegantly they present on the table – a true crowd-pleaser!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky pastry pairs perfectly with savory mushrooms.
- Elegant shape makes them ideal for special occasions.
- Delicious earthy flavors with a touch of sophistication.
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
Selecting the right variety of mushrooms for your duxelles can significantly influence the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend using a mix of shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms, as they offer a lovely balance of earthiness and umami. Be sure to finely chop the mushrooms; a food processor can help achieve a uniform texture. This not only enhances the filling's cohesiveness but also allows them to cook evenly, preventing any moisture from escaping too quickly during the cooking process.
If you're looking for dietary substitutions, feel free to explore alternatives such as oyster or portobello mushrooms. Just keep in mind that the moisture content in different types may vary. For instance, portobello mushrooms may require slightly longer cooking to fully caramelize and reduce their liquid. Always taste the duxelles as you go, adjusting seasoning as needed to match the intensity of your mushroom choice.
Perfecting the Puff Pastry
When preparing puff pastry, the quality and handling of the dough are crucial for achieving that irresistible flaky texture. If you're using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it's fully thawed before rolling it out. Keeping the dough slightly chilled while you work will help maintain its integrity and ensure it puffs nicely in the oven. Avoid overworking the dough to prevent it from becoming tough; a light touch is all you need.
For a decorative touch, consider scoring the edges of the hearts gently with a sharp knife before baking. This not only enhances their appearance but also encourages the pastry to rise even more. Additionally, using an egg wash adds a beautiful sheen, making your pastries look as delightful as they taste.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for your Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles:
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Mushroom Duxelles:
- 400g mixed mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cream (optional)
Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Puff Pastry Hearts:
Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and are golden brown.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Place half of the hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, as these will be the bases for your filled hearts.
Assemble the Hearts
Spoon a small amount of the mushroom duxelles onto each base heart, leaving a small border around the edge. Place another heart on top of the filling, sealing the edges by pressing firmly. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delightful morsels with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture while cooking. Also, if you're short on time, store-bought mushroom duxelles can be used instead.
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the great things about Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles is that they can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for entertaining. You can assemble the hearts, brush them with egg wash, and then cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering.
If you have leftovers or want to make a larger batch, these pastries freeze well too. Once baked, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or plastic freezer bag. They can be reheated in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, restoring their flaky texture. Just keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Serving Suggestions
Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Consider pairing them with a light arugula salad to add a peppery contrast to the rich mushroom filling. A simple vinaigrette can enhance this combo, balancing the earthy flavors beautifully. Alternatively, they can be served alongside a creamy mushroom or roasted garlic dip for extra indulgence.
For a complete meal, these pastries can be paired with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The wine elevates the dining experience while complementing the dish's savory notes. Don't hesitate to get creative and use these hearts as a starter or snack during a cozy movie night.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite mushrooms for varied flavors.
→ How should I store any leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
→ Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the duxelles and fill the pastry hearts a few hours before baking; just refrigerate until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I serve with these puff pastry hearts?
They pair beautifully with a light salad, or you can serve them as part of a charcuterie board.
Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles
I absolutely adore making Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles; they have become a staple at my gatherings. The flaky buttery pastry paired with a savory mushroom filling always impresses my guests. From the first bite, they fall in love with the rich earthiness of the mushrooms, balanced with the crispness of the pastry. These little hearts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!
Created by: Violet Hart
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 hearts
What You'll Need
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Mushroom Duxelles:
- 400g mixed mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cream (optional)
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and are golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. For a creamier texture, add the cream and mix well. Let it cool while you prepare the pastry.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Place half of the hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, as these will be the bases for your filled hearts.
Spoon a small amount of the mushroom duxelles onto each base heart, leaving a small border around the edge. Place another heart on top of the filling, sealing the edges by pressing firmly. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture while cooking. Also, if you're short on time, store-bought mushroom duxelles can be used instead.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g