Looking for a last-minute Valentine's Day treat that's quick, healthy-ish, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Valentines Love Letter Pastries! Imagine surprising your loved one with adorable, heart-shaped pastries that not only taste amazing but also show you care. As a busy single mom, I know that time is precious, and these pastries are a total game-changer. A sweet treat without the hours in the kitchen is a win-win!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, my grandmother, Nana Rose, had a knack for making the simplest things feel incredibly special. Her Valentine's Day treats were always the highlight, though usually sugar-laden to the extreme. Inspired by her love and wanting to create a healthier (and quicker!) version of a Valentine's Day tradition, these Valentines Love Letter Pastries were born. They capture the essence of Nana Rose's love without the guilt.
Ingredients
-
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet (14.1 oz) ready-made puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
-
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or your favorite jam flavor)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
-
For the Decoration (optional):
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Red sugar sprinkles, for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Prep the Pastry: Gently roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into equal rectangles (about 3×4 inches).
- Shape the Hearts: Fold each rectangle in half. Cut a half-heart shape along the folded edge. Unfold to reveal a heart shape.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine raspberry jam, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using).
- Fill the Hearts: Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of each heart.
- Seal the Edges: Fold the other half of the heart over the filling, sealing the edges with a fork. This creates a "letter" effect.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with beaten egg.
- Sprinkle and Bake: lightly Sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Decorate: Let cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with red sugar sprinkles (optional).
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
Valentines Love Letter Pastries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Pastry: Gently roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into equal rectangles (about 3×4 inches).1 sheet ready-made puff pastry
- Shape the Hearts: Fold each rectangle in half. Cut a half-heart shape along the folded edge. Unfold to reveal a heart shape.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine raspberry jam, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using).1/2 cup raspberry jam, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp almond extract
- Fill the Hearts: Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of each heart.1/2 cup raspberry jam, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp almond extract
- Seal the Edges: Fold the other half of the heart over the filling, sealing the edges with a fork. This creates a “letter” effect.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastries with beaten egg.1 large egg
- Sprinkle and Bake: lightly Sprinkle with granulated sugar.1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Decorate: Let cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with red sugar sprinkles (optional).powdered sugar, red sugar sprinkles
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!