This flaky apple cinnamon puff pastry is the ultimate fall dessert—warm, buttery puff pastry filled with tender, caramelized apples, spiced with cinnamon, and topped with a cloud of whipped cream. The combination of crisp pastry, soft apple filling, and light cream makes this dessert irresistible. Whether you serve it as a special treat for guests or as a quick weekend dessert, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pastry & Filling:
- 200g (7.1 oz) puff pastry
- 4 apples (peeled and sliced)
- 20g (0.7 oz) butter
- 10g (0.4 oz) cinnamon
- 30g (1.1 oz) brown sugar
- 200g (7.1 oz) sugar
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) water
- 20 ml (0.7 fl oz) lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
For the Apple Filling Cream:
- 200 ml (6.8 fl oz) whipping cream
- 80g (2.8 oz) powdered sugar
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 300g (11 oz) whipping cream
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) or as directed on the puff pastry package.
- Prepare the apple filling: In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Cook the apples: Add the sliced apples, butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar to the saucepan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the apples soften slightly. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares, rectangles, or circles.
- Assemble the pastries: Spoon the apple filling onto the center of each pastry piece, leaving space around the edges.
- Bake the pastries: Transfer the filled pastries to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Whip the cream for the filling: In a bowl, whip 200ml of whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this into the cooled apple mixture for a creamy filling.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: Using an electric mixer, whip 300g of whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Serve: Remove the baked pastries from the oven, let them cool slightly, then top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and dust with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 30g
The Origins and Popularity
Apple-filled pastries have a rich European history, with origins in French, Austrian, and German baking traditions. Similar desserts like apple strudel (Austria) and chausson aux pommes (France) have been enjoyed for centuries. These pastries became especially popular in fall and winter when apples were harvested and used in warm, comforting desserts.
With the rise of modern baking techniques, puff pastry has become a go-to choice for home bakers, making it quick and easy to recreate classic European-style apple desserts at home. Whether served as an everyday treat or a festive holiday dessert, this flaky apple puff pastry is a timeless favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this flaky apple pastry—it’s easy to make and incredibly delicious.
- Flaky, buttery pastry – Crisp on the outside, soft inside
- Warm, spiced apple filling – A comforting mix of cinnamon and caramelized apples
- Light and creamy topping – Whipped cream adds a luxurious touch
- Perfect for any occasion – Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Easy to prepare – Made with store-bought puff pastry for convenience
Health Benefits
While this is an indulgent dessert, it still provides some nutritional benefits.
- Rich in fiber – Apples help with digestion and gut health.
- Contains antioxidants – Cinnamon and apples are loaded with beneficial compounds.
- Lower in added fats – Uses minimal butter compared to traditional pies.
- Dairy-based protein – Whipped cream provides a source of protein and calcium.
Serving Suggestions
This apple puff pastry is versatile and can be served in multiple ways.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Pair with a hot latte or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips
For the flakiest, most delicious apple puff pastry, keep these tips in mind:
- Keep the puff pastry cold before baking for the best rise.
- Don’t overload with filling—too much moisture can make the pastry soggy.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
- Let the pastries cool slightly before adding whipped cream to prevent melting.
- Bake on parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure even baking.
Variations to Try
This recipe can be customized in many ways to create unique flavor variations.
- Spiced Apple-Raisin Pastries: Add raisins or cranberries for extra sweetness.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before baking.
- Caramel Apple Pastries: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the apples before sealing.
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips to the apple filling for a sweet surprise.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of whipping cream for a plant-based option.
Conclusion
These flaky apple cinnamon puff pastries are a delightful mix of buttery pastry, warm apples, and creamy whipped topping. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weekend treat, a special occasion, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a bakery-style dessert at home!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of puff pastry?
Yes, but the texture will be different—pie crust is denser, while puff pastry is flaky. -
What type of apples should I use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work best for baking. -
Can I prepare the apple filling in advance?
Yes! You can make it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to use. -
Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, freeze them before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. -
Can I make this without whipped cream?
Yes, the pastries are delicious on their own or served with ice cream. -
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the apple mixture is not too watery and bake at a high temperature. -
Can I use different spices?
Yes! Try nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom for a different spice profile. -
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
Use white sugar with a dash of molasses as a substitute. -
Can I make mini versions?
Absolutely! Just cut the pastry into smaller squares and reduce baking time.
This flaky apple cinnamon puff pastry is a must-try dessert that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Give it a go and enjoy bakery-style perfection in your own kitchen! 🍏🥐