Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles

Name: Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 500g mushrooms, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles! They’re not just elegant but also bursting with rich, earthy flavors that elevate any gathering. Preparing them is a delightful experience, from making the luscious duxelles to shaping the pastry into charming heart shapes. With a perfect balance of buttery pastry and savory mushrooms, these treats impress both visually and taste-wise. Whether served as an appetizer or a part of a special meal, these puff pastry hearts never fail to bring joy to the table.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:46:17.947Z

I remember the first time I made Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles for a friend’s dinner party. The fresh, fragrant aroma of sautéed mushrooms filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait to serve them. Watching everyone’s faces light up upon tasting them was an unforgettable moment.

What I love most is how versatile this recipe is. I tried adding some fresh herbs to the duxelles, and it truly enhanced the overall flavor. Also, making the heart shapes out of the puff pastry adds an extra touch of whimsy that guests adore. It’s a simple detail that makes a big impact!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich mushroom flavor complemented by flaky puff pastry
Elegant presentation that's perfect for entertaining
Versatile enough for appetizers or a gourmet addition to any meal

      

Mastering Mushroom Duxelles

Mushroom duxelles is a finely chopped mixture of mushrooms, onions, and herbs, making it a staple in French cuisine. When preparing it, use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture. Finely chop the mushrooms to ensure they cook evenly and allow their moisture to evaporate quickly. This step is essential; undercooked mushrooms can leave your filling soggy. Cook the mixture until it’s dry and glossy, about 10-12 minutes, depending on your heat level and mushroom type.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different mushrooms; shiitake or cremini can add a more robust flavor profile. Adding a splash of white wine during cooking amplifies the earthy flavors, but if you prefer to keep it alcohol-free, a drizzle of lemon juice can provide the necessary acidity.

Puff Pastry Tips and Techniques

Puff pastry is all about layers, which creates that wonderfully flaky texture. When rolling out your pastry, ensure your surface is well-floured to prevent sticking, and apply even pressure for uniform thickness. Aim for about 1/8 of an inch; this thickness allows the pastry to puff beautifully without being too dense. If the dough becomes too warm, chill it for 10-15 minutes to relax the gluten and maintain its shape during baking.

Using a fork to seal the edges not only keeps the filling inside but also creates a charming decorative touch. If you're looking to elevate the visual aspect, you can score the tops of the pastries lightly with a knife in a decorative pattern prior to brushing on the egg wash. This helps the pastries puff and adds a beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

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

For the Mushroom Duxelles

500g mushrooms, finely chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions and garlic until soft. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook for around 10-12 minutes until the moisture evaporates. Stir in the parsley and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Shape the Puff Pastry

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

Assemble and Bake

Spoon a portion of the mushroom duxelles onto each heart shape on the baking sheet. Cover with the remaining heart-shaped pastry, sealing the edges by pressing down with a fork. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some grated cheese into the mushroom mixture or garnishing with fresh herbs before serving.

Storing and Reheating

These Puff Pastry Hearts can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for a gathering. Once assembled, you can freeze them before baking. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to a month. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time until they are golden and puffed.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This method revives the pastry's crispiness, which can often be lost when microwaving.

Serving Suggestions

These elegant Puff Pastry Hearts can be served alongside a variety of dipping sauces. A simple garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip pairs wonderfully with the rich mushroom filling. Feel free to garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped chives for that extra color and flavor boost.

For themed gatherings, consider pairing these pastries with a selection of wines. A light Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc highlights the earthy mushroom tones beautifully. Additionally, they make a fabulous addition to a charcuterie board, nestled in among cheeses, nuts, and olives for an extravagant presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mushroom duxelles in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the duxelles up to two days ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before assembling the pastries.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with various fillings like spinach and cheese, or even a mixture of roasted vegetables for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze these pastries?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled pastries before baking. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before baking.