Heart Shaped Puff Pastries with Custard and Cherries
An enchanting dessert featuring flaky puff pastries filled with creamy custard and topped with juicy halved cherries, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade) Flaky and airy, this pastry is the heart of our dessert.
For the Custard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Rich and creamy, it adds a luxurious texture to the custard.
- 1/4 cup whole milk Smooth and slightly sweet, contributing to the creamy custard base.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar This white gold ensures just the right amount of sweetness.
- 2 large egg yolks They add richness and contribute to the smooth custard consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Aromatic and warm, it enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch This silent hero thickens our custard to the perfect consistency.
For Topping
- Fresh cherries pitted and halved Juicy and vibrant, they provide a burst of flavor and color.
- Powdered sugar optional, for dusting A delicate sprinkle adds a charming touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out your puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut into heart shapes.
Making the Custard
- Whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- In a saucepan, warm the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat without boiling.
- Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until thickened.
- Remove from heat and fold in the vanilla extract.
Baking
- Spoon the custard onto the puff pastry hearts, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the pastry is golden and crisp.
- Top each pastry with halved fresh cherries and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For a healthier option, consider whole grain or gluten-free puff pastry. Leftovers can be stored for up to two days in an airtight container.