Easy Nutella Pastry Hearts

These delightful Nutella Puff Pastry Hearts feature flaky layers of buttery pastry filled with rich chocolate hazelnut spread. Perfect for special occasions or romantic celebrations, they combine elegant presentation with irresistible flavor. The contrast between crisp pastry and smooth filling creates a truly memorable treat.

Key Ingredients

• Puff Pastry: Use frozen, store-bought sheets for convenience
• Nutella: Softened at room temperature
• Egg: Creates golden-brown crust
• Powdered Sugar: For decorative finish
• Fresh Berries: Optional garnish

Preparation Method

1. Initial Setup: Heat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheet with parchment. Thaw pastry until workable.
2. Shape Formation: Cut hearts using cutter or template. Keep pastry cold.
3. Rest Period: Chill cut shapes 10 minutes.
4. Fill Hearts: Spread Nutella on half the pieces, leaving border.
5. Assembly: Cover filled hearts with plain tops.
6. Edge Sealing: Press borders with fork tines.
7. Surface Preparation: Apply egg wash evenly.
8. Baking: Cook 12-15 minutes until golden.
9. Cooling: Rest 5 minutes on pan, then rack.
10. Finishing: Dust with sugar, serve warm.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store cooled pastries in an airtight container up to 2 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore crispness. For make-ahead preparation, assemble pastries and freeze unbaked up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to cooking time.

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Flavor Variations

Experiment with different filling combinations while keeping the basic technique consistent. Try adding sliced strawberries with the Nutella in summer, or incorporate cinnamon-spiced apple slices in fall. During winter holidays, crushed peppermint adds festive flair. The versatile pastry base welcomes creative adaptations.

Pastry Technique Tips

Success relies on proper handling of the puff pastry dough. Cold butter layered between dough creates steam during baking, resulting in characteristic flaky texture. Maintain dough temperature below 65°F for optimal results. Allow 15-minute chill time before baking for maximum rise and delicate crispness.

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Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I make these in advance?

They’re best fresh, but you can put them together up to a day before baking and keep them in the fridge.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re tastiest right after baking, though.

→ Can I swap Nutella for something else?

Sure! Try a fruit jam, a rich chocolate spread, or even a different nut butter if you like.

→ Why should the pastry be chilled?

Cold dough holds its shape better in the oven, plus it gives you that nice flaky texture.

→ Is it okay to freeze these?

You can freeze the pastries before baking for up to a month. Pop them straight into the oven when frozen!