Crispy Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry; 1 small egg; 1 tsp milk or water; Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling); 250 ml (1 cup) double cream (heavy cream), cold; 30 g (4 tbsp) icing sugar (plus extra for dusting); 12 tsp chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella); Fresh strawberries, thinly sliced; Nut-free chocolate spread; Cream cheese (mixed with whipped cream); Use refrigerated pie crust in place of puff pastry (texture will vary); Store-bought whipped cream can be used for convenience

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Last updated on July 4, 2025

Do you remember the first time you tried to bake something special, only to end up with a kitchen disaster? I do. I was just a novice in the kitchen, attempting to make a classic chocolate cake for my best friend’s birthday. The cake was a pile of crumbs, but the laughter and love shared over that little mishap became a cherished memory. That’s what cooking is all about—the joy of sharing moments with those we care about.

If you’ve ever felt the anxiety of trying a new recipe, especially one that looks fancy, you’re not alone. The thought of creating delicate, flaky pastries might seem daunting, and you might worry about making a mess or ruining the dish. But I’m here to reassure you that today’s recipe for Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts is designed to be simple, stress-free, and perfect for even the most beginner cooks. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be on your way to impressing friends and family with these delightful, bite-sized treats!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts

Here’s the good news: this recipe doesn’t require a long, complicated list of ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need, along with some optional additions and substitutions.

Essentials

1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry: This is the star of the show. Using ready-rolled pastry saves time and makes the process super easy.
1 small egg: You’ll use this to create a lovely egg wash that gives your pastries a beautiful golden color.
1 tsp milk or water: This will also be added to the egg for the wash.
Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling): Adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness on top.
250 ml (1 cup) double cream (heavy cream), cold: Essential for the luscious whipped cream filling.
30 g (4 tbsp) icing sugar (powdered sugar) + extra for dusting: To sweeten the cream and for a final touch.
12 tsp chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella or alternative): This gives a rich and creamy chocolate flavor.
Fresh strawberries (thinly sliced): These add a fruity freshness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Optional Add-Ons

Nut-free chocolate spread: If you’re accommodating allergies, feel free to swap out the Nutella for a nut-free alternative.
Cream cheese: For a tangy twist, you could blend some cream cheese with the whipped cream for added flavor.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you don’t have puff pastry, you could substitute with refrigerated pie crusts, but the texture will be different.
You can also use store-bought whipped cream if you’re in a pinch; just make sure it’s high-quality.

How to Make Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts Step-by-Step

Now, let’s dive into the steps of making these delightful pastry hearts. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Wash

Start by preparing the egg wash, which helps the pastries achieve that perfect golden-brown finish. In a small bowl, beat together one small egg and 1 teaspoon of milk or water. This simple mixture will do wonders for the look and texture of your pastries.

Step 2: Cut Out the Pastry Hearts

Unroll your sheet of puff pastry while keeping it on its baking paper. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out 12 hearts from the pastry. If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, don’t worry! A round cutter or even a knife can work in a pinch.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While you’re preparing the pastry hearts, it’s a good time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 180°C (350°F). If you’re using an oven, preheat to 200°C (or 180°C for the fan setting). This ensures that your pastries will cook evenly and get that lovely puff.

Step 4: Air Fry the Pastry Hearts

Now it’s time for the fun part! Place the pastry hearts into the air fryer basket, leaving about 3 cm (1¼ inches) between each heart so they have space to puff up. Brush the tops with the prepared egg wash and sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top if you desire that extra crunch. Air fry for about 8 minutes, or bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Once they’re out, let them cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of cold double cream along with 4 tablespoons of icing sugar. Using an electric hand mixer, whip the mixture until stiff peaks form. This shouldn’t take long! Once ready, transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle for a pretty presentation.

Step 6: Slice the Pastries

Carefully take each cooled pastry heart and slice it in half using a serrated knife, creating a top and bottom layer. This part requires a gentle touch to keep those layers intact.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate and Cream

On the bottom half of each pastry heart, spread 1 teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread. This is where the magic begins! Next, pipe three large blobs of whipped cream on top of the chocolate layer, forming a triangle shape. This not only looks beautiful but adds the perfect amount of creaminess.

Step 8: Add the Strawberries

Now, let’s bring in the freshness. Place three thin slices of strawberry on top of the whipped cream. These bright red strawberries not only look delightful but add a juicy burst of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Step 9: Add the Top Layer

Finally, place the top half of the pastry heart over the filling, gently pressing down to ensure everything is snug. For a finishing touch, dust with some extra icing sugar for that elegant bakery touch. Voilà! You’ve created something amazing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When embarking on a new recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common pitfalls with this recipe and how to avoid them:

Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Many beginners forget to preheat their air fryer or oven. This step is crucial as it helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature, leading to those perfectly puffed pastries.

Overmixing the Whipped Cream

When whipping the cream, be careful not to overmix. Whipping too long can turn your cream into butter, which you definitely don’t want. Stop mixing as soon as stiff peaks form for that perfect fluffy consistency.

Skipping the Cooling Time

Letting your pastry hearts cool completely before adding the filling is essential. If you skip this step, your filling might melt or cause the pastry to become soggy. Give it a moment; it’s worth it.

Using Warm Ingredients

For the best results, make sure your double cream is cold when whipping. Warm cream won’t whip properly and may result in a disappointing texture.

Quick Wins for Beginner Cooks

I remember my early cooking days, and I know how satisfying it can be to feel like you’re really “getting” it. Here are some quick wins to help boost your confidence:

Embrace the Convenience of Store-Bought

Using ready-rolled puff pastry is a great shortcut that doesn’t compromise quality. There’s no shame in using store-bought ingredients—many professional chefs do!

Invest in a Good Mixer

A reliable electric hand mixer can shave minutes off your prep time, especially when whipping cream. It also makes the process much easier and less tiring for your arms.

Master the Basics First

Before diving into complex recipes, get comfortable with the basics, like whipping cream and preheating your appliances. Once you have those down, tackle recipes like this one with confidence.

Experiment with Fillings

The beauty of this pastry recipe is that the fillings are versatile. Try different spreads, creams, or fruits to discover your favorite combinations. It’s a fun way to personalize your treats.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Feeling adventurous? Here are some pro tips you can keep in your back pocket for when you’re ready to take it to the next level:

Play with Flavors

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor combinations. Nut butters, fruit preserves, and even flavored creams can elevate your pastry hearts in delightful ways.

Try Making Your Own Whipped Cream

Once you feel comfortable, try customizing your whipped cream with flavorings like vanilla extract or cocoa powder. This adds another layer of flavor to your treats.

Use a Mixture of Berries

Instead of just using strawberries, combine them with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful and delicious array of flavors on top of your pastries.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the pastry hearts in advance and fill them just before serving. This is a perfect strategy for gatherings, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Congratulations! You’ve tackled the recipe for Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts, and I hope you feel as accomplished and excited as I do whenever I make these treats. Remember, cooking is supposed to be fun and rewarding, and it becomes even more delightful when you share it with loved ones.

Feel free to customize your pastries and let your creativity flow. What unique fillings or toppings will you choose next? I can’t wait to hear about your delicious adventures in the kitchen!

If you enjoyed this recipe, I invite you to explore more cozy and beginner-friendly recipes on the blog. Your kitchen awaits!

FAQs About Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts

Can I use frozen puff pastry for Air Fryer Chocolate and Strawberry Pastry Hearts?

Yes, you can use frozen puff pastry. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before rolling it out and cutting out the hearts.

What are some alternatives to chocolate hazelnut spread for this recipe?

You can use any nut or seed butter, coconut cream, or even fruit preserves if you want a fruity twist instead of chocolate.

How do I store leftover pastry hearts?

If you have leftover pastry hearts, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be aware that they may lose some crunch over time.

Can I make these pastry hearts ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the pastry hearts and bake them ahead of time. Just add the fillings before serving for the best texture.

Is it possible to bake these in an oven?

Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, simply preheat your oven and bake the pastry hearts as detailed in the recipe. Just add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re properly cooked and golden brown.

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