Valentines Snacks Mini Puff Pastries

Name: Valentines Snacks Mini Puff Pastries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 mini pastries
Ingredients: 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed); 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); Flour (for dusting); 1 cup of cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup of powdered sugar; 1 tsp of vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries (chopped); 1 cup of cooked chicken (shredded); 1/2 cup of cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce; 1/4 cup of shredded cheese

Highlighted under: Party Ideas

I absolutely love making these mini puff pastries for Valentine's Day! They are not only adorable but also a delightful treat that impresses everyone. Each bite is a blissful mix of flaky pastry and delicious fillings that you can customize to your liking. Whether you choose sweet or savory fillings, preparing these pastries is straightforward and so rewarding. Simple yet elegant, they are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during a romantic evening at home.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:01:34.612Z

During one of my Valentine's Day celebrations, I wanted to create something that was both simple and special. I decided on these mini puff pastries, and they turned out to be the highlight of the evening! Experimenting with different fillings really transformed each batch, and I ended up with a delightful variety.

I discovered that using store-bought puff pastry saves a lot of time without sacrificing flavor. A tip I learned is to chill the pastries in the fridge for a few minutes before baking to ensure they puff up beautifully in the oven. This makes all the difference for that flaky texture!

        Reasons You'll Love These Mini Puff Pastries
        Perfectly flaky layers that melt in your mouth
Versatile fillings that can be sweet or savory
Fun to make and even more fun to share

      

Perfecting Your Puff Pastry Technique

Puff pastry is a delicate dough that relies on steam for its signature flaky layers. Ensuring that your pastry remains cold throughout the process is crucial. If the dough warms up, it will lose its ability to puff properly when baked. I recommend working in a cool kitchen and placing any remaining dough back in the refrigerator if it starts to soften.

When cutting your pastry, a sharp knife or pizza cutter will help prevent seal edges from being squished down, which can impact the rising of the pastry. Be sure to cut cleanly and without dragging the knife, ensuring that the edges remain intact for better layering.

Making Memorable Fillings

The beauty of these mini pastries lies in their versatile fillings. For the sweet option, using fresh strawberries not only adds delightful flavor but also moisture. If strawberries aren’t available, consider using raspberries or even a mix of berries for a different taste. Make sure to mix the cream cheese and sugar until it's glossy to ensure a smooth texture that spreads evenly.

For the savory filling, the tangy kick of buffalo sauce complements the creamy ingredients beautifully. If you're not a fan of heat, you can substitute the buffalo sauce with ranch dressing or a mild barbecue sauce for a more mellow flavor. Mixing in chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or celery, can add crunch and freshness.

Baking and Serving Tips

Baking these puff pastries at a high temperature—400°F (200°C)—is essential for achieving that golden brown color and crisp texture. Place the pastries spaced out on a parchment-lined sheet to ensure they bake evenly. Don't crowd the pan, as steam needs space to escape in order to puff them properly. If browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil halfway through baking.

After baking, let the pastries cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the fillings to firm up slightly, making it easier to eat without oozing out. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a fantastic treat for parties or as an appetizer during a romantic dinner.

Ingredients

For the Pastries

1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Flour (for dusting)

For the Sweet Filling

1 cup of cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup of powdered sugar
1 tsp of vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries (chopped)

For the Savory Filling

1 cup of cooked chicken (shredded)
1/2 cup of cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup of buffalo sauce
1/4 cup of shredded cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut them into 3-inch squares.

Create the Sweet Filling

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the chopped strawberries and stir to combine.

Fill the Pastries

Place a tablespoon of the sweet filling in the center of each pastry square. For savory, mix the chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and cheese, then fill the squares.

Seal and Brush

Fold the pastry squares over to form triangles and press the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fillings based on your preferences! You can use chocolate, jam, or even pesto for a unique twist. Also, remember that preheating your oven is essential for proper puffing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, these mini puff pastries can be assembled a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked pastries on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Baked pastries can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheating them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through to restore some of that original crispness.

Flavors and Variations to Try

Experimenting with different fillings can yield exciting results. Swap the strawberries in the sweet filling for other fruits like blueberries or cherries, and add a dash of lemon zest for brightness. For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of liqueur like Amaretto for an enhanced flavor.

For savory variations, try using ingredients like pesto or sun-dried tomatoes paired with goat cheese for a Mediterranean flair. Fresh herbs such as basil or chives can also infuse your fillings with vibrant flavors. The flexibility of flavors allows these pastries to shine in both casual and elegant dining settings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pastries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pastries and fill them, then refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will work too and might add an extra touch of indulgence.

→ What other fillings can I try?

You can try using fruit preserves, Nutella, or even spinach and feta for a savory option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.