Apple strudel with puff pastry

Apple Roll with Puff Pastry

I present to you a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for those moments when you want to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen! The apple roll with puff pastry is a refined dessert, yet extremely accessible, combining the inviting flavors of caramelized apples with the crunchy texture of puff pastry. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to impress your family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 2 sheets of puff pastry (usually found in frozen stores)
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet apples like Golden or Gala)
- 200 g brown sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 2-3 tablespoons poppy seeds (for decoration)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are rich in fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Brown sugar adds a caramel note, but I recommend using it in moderation, especially if you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Thawing the pastry: Start by removing the puff pastry sheets from the freezer and letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to thaw completely.

2. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them in half. Use a grater with large holes to get fine strips of apple. This step will allow them to caramelize evenly.

3. Caramelizing the apples: In a taller pot, place the grated apples over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the apples start to release their juice and become soft, add the cinnamon, vanilla sugar, and vanilla essence. Mix well to combine the flavors and let the mixture cool.

4. Preparing the pastry: On a clean surface sprinkled with a little flour, roll out the first sheet of pastry. With a rolling pin, roll the sheet a little thinner. This step helps create a crunchier roll.

5. Assembling the roll: At one end of the pastry sheet, add a few generous tablespoons of caramelized apples, then carefully roll it up, making sure not to leave any filling on the outside. Continue adding apples and rolling until you reach the end of the sheet. Repeat this process with the second sheet of pastry.

6. Preparing for baking: Wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This step helps the pastry set and maintain its shape during baking. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

7. Brushing and decorating: Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and make a few cuts along the length (about 2-3 cuts). Brush the surface with egg yolk and sprinkle poppy seeds for a crunchy and appetizing look.

8. Baking: Place the rolls in greased trays lined with baking paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and crispy. You can do the toothpick test to check if they are baked inside.

9. Serving: After removing them from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Cut the rolls into slices and enjoy the inviting aroma!

Tips and variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling for added texture and flavor.
- Instead of brown sugar, use honey or maple syrup for a different taste.
- If you want to personalize your roll, experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more exotic flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but make sure to adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of the fruits.

2. How do I keep the roll fresh?
The roll keeps well at room temperature for a few days, but you can also freeze it. Wrap the slices in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer.

3. What drinks pair well with this roll?
A cup of apple tea or spiced mulled wine will perfectly complement the flavors of the dessert.

The apple roll with puff pastry is a dessert that brings joy in every bite. So don’t hesitate to prepare it and enjoy a sweet moment with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!