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: 12 hearts
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 400g mushrooms, finely chopped; 1 shallot, minced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles; they perfectly blend sophistication with comfort. Every bite reveals a flaky, buttery crust accompanied by a savory, earthy mushroom filling. This recipe not only serves as an elegant appetizer for gatherings but also provides a delightful snack for cozy nights in. I love that you can make the duxelles ahead of time, simplifying the prep process when you're ready to impress your guests. It's all about that flaky texture paired with the umami of mushrooms, and I can't get enough!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:07:18.289Z

When I first made Mushroom Duxelles, I was fascinated by how the cooking process intensified the mushroom flavors. Sautéing mushrooms with shallots and herbs creates a rich filling that pairs beautifully with the buttery pastry. I learned that allowing the mixture to cool before filling the pastry helps maintain that flaky texture, making every bite a festival of crunch and flavor.

Using high-quality puff pastry is crucial; it gives these hearts their height and delicate layers. I usually opt for a store-bought, all-butter pastry, and it never disappoints. These little pastries have become a favorite in my home, perfect for elevating any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky texture that balances perfectly with the rich filling
Sophisticated enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment
Versatile recipe that can be adapted with different fillings.

      

Understanding Duxelles

Mushroom duxelles serves as a flavorful filling that elevates the puff pastry hearts from ordinary to extraordinary. The process of finely chopping the mushrooms and cooking out their moisture is critical to achieving a concentrated flavor. When cooked properly, the mixture should become thick and glossy, not watery. This not only enhances the taste but also prevents soggy pastries. Taking the time to cook the mushrooms thoroughly will reward you with a rich, umami-packed filling that complements the flaky crust beautifully.

In this recipe, fresh thyme adds an aromatic layer that pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the mushrooms. While fresh herbs are always preferable, dried thyme can serve as a substitute in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs, as they tend to be more potent. Additionally, experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley if you wish to vary the flavor profile of your duxelles.

Mastering Puff Pastry Techniques

To get the best results from your puff pastry, it's crucial to handle it gently. When rolling it out, ensure your surface is well-floured to prevent sticking, which can cause uneven shapes. If your pastry is becoming too warm and pliable, chill it briefly in the refrigerator to help it firm up. This step is vital, as cold puff pastry will puff up better in the oven, leading to that desired flaky texture.

For the heart shapes, precision is key. A sharp cutter helps define clean edges, ensuring a proper seal when you press them together. If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, you can easily use a knife to create the shapes freehand. Just remember, the size of the pastries will affect cooking time; larger shapes may need an extra few minutes in the oven to achieve that golden brown finish.

Serving and Storing your Pastry Hearts

These puff pastry hearts are best served warm directly out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help restore their crispiness—microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the mushroom duxelles a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you're ready to bake, just assemble the pastry hearts, brush with egg wash, and bake straight from the fridge. You can also freeze unbaked pastry hearts for up to a month; just ensure to thaw them completely before baking to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Hearts

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

For the Mushroom Duxelles

400g mushrooms, finely chopped
1 shallot, minced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the mushrooms and thyme, then season with salt and pepper. Cook until the moisture evaporates and the mixture is thick. Stir in the heavy cream, then set aside to cool.

Shape the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth it out. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out shapes. Place half on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Fill the Pastries

Spoon a small amount of the mushroom duxelles onto each heart shape on the baking sheet. Top with another cut-out pastry heart, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork.

Bake the Pastry Hearts

Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different mushroom varieties and herbs to customize the flavors. Ensure the duxelles is completely cool before sealing it in the pastry to avoid sogginess.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe is very adaptable; try swapping out the mushrooms for spinach, cheese, or even roasted vegetables for a different twist on the filling. If using cheese, choose varieties like goat cheese or ricotta for added creaminess. Just be cautious with moisture levels to prevent a soggy pastry, so briefly sauté your swaps before adding them to the puff pastry.

Additionally, for those looking for a vegan alternative, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter spread. Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a non-dairy cream to maintain a rich texture without using animal products.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your puff pastry isn’t rising as expected, it may be because it was not kept cold enough before baking. Keep your ingredients chilled and don’t hesitate to pop the assembled pastries back into the fridge before baking if you notice them getting warm. Additionally, ensure your oven is preheated adequately; an oven thermometer can help guarantee the correct temperature.

Another common issue is sealing the edges of the pastry. If your pastries are leaking filling during baking, check that you pressed or crimped the edges together well enough to create a seal. A simple trick is to use a little egg wash at the seams to create a better bond before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fillings instead of mushroom?

Absolutely! You can try spinach and ricotta, or even a cheese blend for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftover pastry hearts?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, and reheat them in the oven.

→ Can I make the duxelles ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the duxelles a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What type of mushroom is best for this recipe?

Any variety works well, but cremini or shiitake offer a richer flavor.