This Apple Puff Pastry is a quick and delightful dessert featuring caramelized apples enveloped in flaky, buttery pastry. Perfect for a sweet snack or a dinner party treat, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and sugar with the crispiness of puff pastry.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions
- Prepare the Apples:
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are slightly softened and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into four equal squares.
- Assemble the Pastries:
- Spoon a portion of the apple mixture onto the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the apples to form a sealed pocket or leave the corners open for a rustic tart style.
- Brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the Pastries:
- Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the pastries cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
- Avoid overfilling the pastry to prevent leaks during baking.
- If the pastry becomes too soft to handle, refrigerate for 10 minutes before assembling.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Puff Pastry: A rich source of carbohydrates for quick energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Use vegan puff pastry and substitute egg wash with plant-based milk.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked pastries and bake from frozen when needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Flaky, buttery pastry pairs perfectly with soft, caramelized apples.
- Ideal for both casual snacking and festive occasions.
Conclusion
This Apple Puff Pastry is an effortless dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. The combination of sweet apples and flaky pastry creates a treat that’s comforting, delicious, and always a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a little slice of sweetness in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, just thaw it according to the package instructions.
- What apples work best? Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent options.
- Can I add other spices? Nutmeg or allspice complements the cinnamon well.
- Can I make these ahead? Yes, assemble them and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- How do I prevent soggy pastry? Ensure apples are cooked until most of the liquid evaporates.
- Can I use store-bought apple pie filling? Yes, but homemade gives a fresher taste.
- Can I substitute the egg wash? Use milk or cream for a similar golden finish.
- What if I don’t have powdered sugar? Use granulated sugar for a crunchy topping.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Use a gluten-free puff pastry.
- Can I add nuts? Chopped pecans or walnuts add great texture and flavor.