Cinnamon Apple Puff Pastry
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: 500 g (store-bought or homemade)
- Apples: 2 large, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional Toppings: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Apples:
- In a bowl, combine the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Toss until the apples are well coated.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Cut the pastry into rectangles or squares, depending on your desired size.
4. Assemble the Pastries:
- Place a few slices of the spiced apples onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a small border.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the apples to create a pocket.
- Press the edges with a fork to seal, and cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
5. Egg Wash and Bake:
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cider.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Serve alongside a fruit salad for a light dessert spread.
Cooking Tips
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a tart flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Ensure the puff pastry stays cold before baking for maximum flakiness.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
- For a richer flavor, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the apple mixture.
- Freeze unbaked pastries for later use; bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Butter and Puff Pastry: Provides energy and flavor from healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: No meat or animal by-products.
- Customizable: Can be made vegan with plant-based puff pastry and milk alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Pastry, Makes 8)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g