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: 24 hearts
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); Flour (for dusting); 400g mushrooms (finely chopped); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I adore crafting elegant appetizers, and these Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The butteriness of the flaky pastry pairs perfectly with the earthy, savory mushroom filling, creating a delightful bite that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether for a special gathering or a cozy night in, these little hearts make for an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Join me in experiencing the delightful textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:40:13.532Z

When I first tried making Mushroom Duxelles, I was amazed at how deeply flavorful these finely chopped mushrooms could be. Sautéing them slowly with onions and herbs allows them to caramelize, bringing out an umami richness that complements the buttery pastry. I also found that letting the filling cool before assembling ensures that the pastry stays perfectly flaky when baked.

As I worked through the recipe, I learned the importance of not overloading the pastry with filling. A simple dollop of the mushroom mixture does wonders, creating a delightful taste without sacrificing the perfect puff. Each heart is lovely on the plate, making them perfect for my gatherings, and they disappear in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The flaky, buttery texture of the pastry is irresistible.
Rich, earthy flavors from the mushroom filling elevate any occasion.
These elegant hearts are perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

      

Mastering the Duxelles Filling

The mushroom duxelles is the star of this appetizer, and mastering it can elevate your culinary skills. Choosing the right mushrooms is crucial; cremini or shiitake mushrooms provide a rich flavor, while common button mushrooms are milder. Ensure the mushrooms are finely chopped to facilitate even cooking and allow maximum moisture evaporation. This prevents your pastry from becoming soggy during baking, so aim for a mixture that's dry and concentrated with flavor before using it in your hearts.

When sautéing the mushroom mixture, the goal is to achieve a perfect caramelization. Cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, continuously stirring until the mushrooms turn golden brown. This will intensify their flavor profile. If you notice the mixture is sticking to the pan, you might need to lower the heat slightly to prevent burning, ensuring a rich, flavorful bite in every heart.

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

Using store-bought puff pastry saves time, but handling it correctly is essential for a flaky texture. When rolling out the pastry, try to maintain a uniform thickness of about 1/8 inch; uneven thickness can lead to inconsistent baking results. It’s essential to keep the dough cool, so if it starts to soften, refrigerate it briefly before cutting the shapes. This will help maintain the layers and create that signature puffiness.

After cutting the pastry into hearts, it's important to work quickly. The egg wash not only acts as a seal between the layers but also enhances the golden color of the final bake. I recommend using a brush to apply the egg wash without over-saturating the edges, which can compromise the seal. Remember to cut those small slits in the top—this simple step allows steam to escape, preventing the hearts from bursting during baking.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Hearts

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

For the Mushroom Duxelles Filling

400g mushrooms (finely chopped)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start assembling the hearts for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Prepare the Mushroom Duxelles

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the chopped mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mixture is browned and the moisture has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool.

Roll and Cut the Pastry

Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the shapes. You should have enough for 12 whole hearts and 12 tops.

Assemble the Hearts

On half of the cutouts, place a teaspoon of the cooled mushroom filling in the center. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, then place the tops on, pressing to seal. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Hearts

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400°F). Arrange the hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serve warm, and enjoy your delightful Puff Pastry Hearts with Mushroom Duxelles!

Pro Tips

For a gourmet touch, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom filling or providing a dipping sauce like aioli on the side.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These puff pastry hearts can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for entertaining. You can prepare the mushroom duxelles a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble, simply roll out the pastry, cut it, and proceed with the filling. If you prefer, you can also assemble the hearts, refrigerate them for up to an hour, and then bake them just before serving for fresh, flaky pastries.

For longer storage, these hearts freeze beautifully. After assembling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to a month. Bake them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for them to reach that perfect golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

These elegant puff pastry hearts are visually stunning on their own but can be paired beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them alongside a tangy balsamic reduction or a creamy garlic aioli to complement the earthy mushroom filling. The contrast of flavors will elevate the experience and provide a culinary delight with each bite.

For a more festive look, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs or microgreens on top of the baked hearts. This adds a pop of color and freshness, making them even more appealing for gatherings. Additionally, serving these hearts on a charcuterie board with a selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits creates a delightful spread that guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen mushrooms for the filling?

While fresh mushrooms yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones as a substitute. Just ensure they're well-drained before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover hearts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.

→ Can I make the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mushroom duxelles a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the pastries.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the filling?

Certainly! You can add cooked spinach, cream cheese, and herbs for a delightful vegetarian version.