Love Letter Pastries are sweet, flaky treats made with buttery pastry dough and a fruity jam center folded into a charming envelope shape. These pastries are perfect for Valentine’s Day, bridal showers, baby showers, or anytime you want a dessert that feels romantic and special. They look elegant but are surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pastries look bakery-worthy but are very easy to make.They use store-bought dough to save time.The heart-shaped jam center makes them perfect for Valentine’s Day.They can be made ahead of time.They are light, flaky, and not overly sweet.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated puff pastry sheets
- Strawberry or raspberry jam
- Cream cheese (optional, softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Egg
- Powdered sugar
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Unroll puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into equal squares.
Step 2: Add the Filling
If using cream cheese, spread a small amount in the center of each square.Place a spoonful of jam on top and shape it into a small heart.
Step 3: Fold the Pastries
Fold two opposite corners toward the center, slightly overlapping the jam.Press gently to secure the folds.
Step 4: Egg Wash
Whisk the egg and lightly brush over the pastry edges for a golden finish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.Remove and cool slightly.
Step 6: Finish
Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Variations
Use cherry, apricot, or blueberry jam
Add Nutella instead of fruit jam
Sprinkle sugar on the dough before baking
Use heart-shaped pastry dough for extra detail
Tips
Do not overfill with jam or it may spread
Keep pastry dough cold before baking
Seal folds gently without flattening
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking
Serving Suggestions
Serve with coffee or tea
Add to a Valentine dessert platter
Serve warm or at room temperature
Pair with fresh berries
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
FAQs
Can I make Love Letter Pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them a day ahead and store at room temperature.
Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, freeze unbaked pastries and bake directly from frozen.
What dough works best for this recipe?
Puff pastry gives the flakiest result.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, the pastries are delicious with jam only.
How long do they stay fresh?
They stay fresh for up to two days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Love Letter Pastries are a beautiful and simple way to show love through baking. With their flaky layers, fruity heart center, and elegant shape, they are perfect for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion.