Strawberry Jam Envelope Pastries

Strawberry Jam Envelope Pastries are a charming and delicious dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Shaped like little envelopes with a sweet strawberry filling, they are perfect for special occasions, gifts, or just a fun treat to enjoy at home. Follow this detailed recipe to make these delightful pastries.

Ingredients Needed:

To prepare Strawberry Jam Envelope Pastries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup of strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon of water
• Granulated sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator or freezer and allow it to thaw slightly until it’s pliable but still cold. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to ensure it is smooth and even.

3. Cut the Pastry Squares

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares, approximately 4×4 inches in size. These squares will form the base of your envelopes.

4. Add the Jam Filling

Place about 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spill out during baking.

5. Fold the Pastry Into Envelopes

To create the envelope shape, fold two opposite corners of the pastry square towards the center, slightly overlapping them. Seal the edges gently by pressing down with your fingers or a fork. You can also cut out a small heart-shaped piece of pastry to place in the center as a decorative touch.

6. Apply the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture lightly over the tops of the pastries to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.

7. Sprinkle With Sugar

For added sweetness and texture, sprinkle a light layer of granulated sugar over the pastries. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch.

8. Bake the Pastries

Place the prepared pastries on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

9. Cool and Serve

Allow the pastries to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

• Jam Selection: While strawberry jam is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as raspberry, apricot, or blueberry.
• Pastry Temperature: Work with cold puff pastry to ensure it puffs up properly during baking.
• Storage: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Strawberry Jam Envelope Pastries are as beautiful as they are tasty. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, afternoon tea, or just a fun baking project, they’re sure to impress your family and friends! Enjoy every flaky, fruity bite!