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.