If you’re looking to make a delightful treat this Valentine’s Day, these Vegan Love Letter Pastries are perfect. Flaky, buttery pastry envelopes filled with sweet strawberry jam create a charming, comforting bite. They’re not just delicious; they’re a beautiful way to share a little love with friends or that special someone. Picture these pastries as a delightful way to celebrate love, perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home.
Table of Contents
Vegan Love Letter Pastries
Why You’ll Love These Pastries
These Vegan Love Letter Pastries are a beautiful combination of flaky pastry and sweet filling, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. The warmth of the baked pastry, combined with the vibrant strawberry jam, offers a sensation that will make your heart flutter. Plus, they are easy to prepare, ensuring that anyone can create this lovely dessert, regardless of their baking experience.
Perfect for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is all about sweet gestures, and what better way to express your affection than with these charming pastries? Their heart-shaped adornments make them visually appealing, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients for Vegan Love Letter Pastries
Essential Ingredients
- 240g plain flour
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 220g dairy-free block butter (cold and cubed)
- Ice-water (as needed)
- 1 jar vegan-friendly strawberry jam
- Dairy-free milk (optional, for brushing)
- Icing sugar (optional, for dusting)
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to get creative with your fillings! You could use raspberry jam or even almond paste for a delightful twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
In a mixing bowl, sift the flour and sugar together. Incorporate the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand. You can do this by hand or using a food processor. Gradually add ice water, one half-tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a smooth, slightly sticky consistency.
Rolling and Cutting the Pastry
Wrap the dough in greaseproof paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm. Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan) and line two baking trays with greaseproof paper. On a floured surface, roll out the dough between two sheets of greaseproof paper into a large rectangle. Cut the dough into diamond shapes (approximately 10cm on each side) and place them on the lined trays. Use a mini heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut shapes from any remaining dough.
Assembling the Love Letter Pastries
Place a teaspoon or two of strawberry jam in the center of each diamond. Fold the sides and bottom corners towards the center to form an envelope shape, sealing the jam inside. Brush the pastries with dairy-free milk and attach the heart shapes in the center. Sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
Baking the Pastries
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool before serving, as the pastries will crisp up after cooling. Dust with icing sugar before serving, if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
Storing Your Pastries
Store the pastries in the refrigerator and allow them to reach room temperature before consuming. They are best enjoyed on the day they are made or within two days.
Making Ice Water
To prepare ice water, fill a small bowl with tap water and add ice cubes. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Valentine Millionaire Bars
- Heart-Shaped Nutella Truffles
- Heart-Shaped Cupcakes
- Valentine’s Day Finger Foods
- Valentine’s Day Appetizers
FAQs
What pastry dough works best for love letter pastries?
A flaky pastry dough works best for love letter pastries, and this vegan version made with dairy-free butter and flour is perfect.
What fillings work best for Valentine love letter pastries?
Strawberry jam is a classic choice, but raspberry jam or almond paste can add a lovely twist.
How do I seal pastries so the filling doesn’t leak?
Ensure to fold and pinch the edges tightly to create a seal, and brushing the edges with a little non-dairy milk can help.
Conclusion
These Vegan Love Letter Pastries are a delightful way to show your affection this Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy moment, they’re sure to delight everyone. Don’t forget to check out more sweet ideas on Pinterest at Elly’s Recipes to inspire your celebrations!
Easy Vegan Love Letter Pastries
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor
- greaseproof paper
- Baking trays
- Rolling Pin
- cookie cutter
Ingredients
- 240 g plain flour
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar plus extra for sprinkling
- 220 g dairy-free block butter cold and cubed
- Ice-water as needed
- 1 jar vegan-friendly strawberry jam
- Dairy-free milk optional, for brushing
- Icing sugar optional, for dusting
Instructions
- Sift flour and sugar together, then mix in the cold butter until it resembles coarse sand.
- Gradually add ice water until the dough forms a smooth, slightly sticky consistency.
- Wrap the dough in greaseproof paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan) and line baking trays with greaseproof paper.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, cut into diamond shapes, and place on the trays.
- Add strawberry jam to the center of each diamond, fold to seal, and brush with dairy-free milk.
- Sprinkle with sugar and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving and dust with icing sugar if desired.