Strawberry-Filled Croissant Hearts

Name: Strawberry-Filled Croissant Hearts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 hearts
Ingredients: 1 package of store-bought croissant dough; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore creating delightful treats, and these Strawberry-Filled Croissant Hearts are no exception. With their flaky exterior and luscious strawberry filling, they make for a perfect sweet indulgence. I love how the simplicity of croissant dough can transform into such an elegant dessert. Plus, the fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Whether for a special breakfast or a romantic dessert, these croissant hearts are sure to impress anyone at your table.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:21:30.541Z

When I set out to create these Strawberry-Filled Croissant Hearts, I was inspired by the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked croissants. I wanted to capture that feeling while adding a fruity twist to it. After some experimentation with different fillings, I discovered that sweetened strawberries complemented the rich croissant perfectly, and it became a dream come true.

One tip I found essential was to chill the dough slightly before cutting it into heart shapes. It helps maintain the structure and ensures that each heart puffs beautifully in the oven. Trust me, when they come out golden and delicious, you won’t be able to resist devouring them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Flaky croissant exterior with a sweet, fruity center
Bring a touch of romance to your breakfast or dessert table
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Croissant Dough

When using store-bought croissant dough, make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before unrolling. This helps soften the dough, making it easier to shape and preventing it from cracking. Additionally, if you find that the dough doesn't roll out easily or keeps springing back, lightly dust your work surface with flour to help improve maneuverability.

For the best results, be mindful of the baking time. Keep an eye on the croissants as they bake. You'll want them to achieve a lovely golden-brown color, which usually happens around the 12-minute mark. If you notice uneven browning, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Perfecting the Strawberry Filling

The strawberry filling is key to the success of these croissant hearts. To ensure a good balance of sweetness without overpowering the fresh strawberry flavor, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes after combining the strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. This allows the strawberries to macerate, releasing natural juices that contribute to a flavorful filling while preventing the dough from becoming soggy during baking.

If fresh strawberries are not available, you can substitute them with frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before dicing; this prevents excess moisture from ruining the texture of your filling. You can also add a hint of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, which complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Croissants

1 package of store-bought croissant dough
1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Strawberry Filling

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine diced strawberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to release the juices.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the Croissants

Unroll the croissant dough and separate it into triangles. Cut each triangle to form a heart shape. Place a spoonful of the strawberry filling in the center of each heart.

Seal and Bake

Fold the edges of the heart over the filling, pressing to seal. Brush the tops with the egg wash and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the croissant hearts to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent finish.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry-Filled Croissant Hearts are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. To elevate your serving presentation, consider dusting the finished croissant hearts with powdered sugar or serving them with a side of whipped cream. This adds an extra touch of elegance, ideal for a special breakfast or dessert occasion.

For a delightful pairing, serve with a cup of rich hot chocolate or a fruity herbal tea. This complementary selection will enhance the strawberry's freshness while balancing the buttery richness of the croissants.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make these croissant hearts ahead of time, you can prepare the strawberry filling a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just assemble the croissants and fill them right before baking, ensuring that you enjoy that flaky texture straight from the oven.

You can also freeze leftover croissant hearts once they are baked and cooled. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the hearts and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or peaches, or even chocolate for a different flavor!