Apples in puff pastry

Goodies for carolers – A seasonal recipe that will delight your senses!

The caroling season brings not only the joy of the holidays but also the need to prepare delicious treats that will enrich festive meals. One of the most appreciated delights is represented by aromatic apples with rum, cinnamon, and orange, wrapped in a lightly crispy puff pastry. This quick and simple dessert is perfect to be served to carolers or simply as a warm snack on chilly winter evenings.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 6 small apples (preferably sweet and aromatic varieties)
- 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry (about 250g)
- 100g fine sugar with flavors (you can find mixes at the supermarket, such as those with cinnamon and orange peel)
- 100g jam (preferably apricot or orange, for a fruity taste)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon of milk
- Vanilla powdered sugar, for decoration

Preparing the apples:
1. Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Choose small, firm apples that won’t absorb water.
2. Peel them with a sharp knife or a peeler, being careful to keep them intact. Core them using a knife or a spoon, removing the core.

Flavoring:
3. In a bowl, mix the fine sugar with your preferred flavors. If you have a mix from the supermarket, it will be perfect. You can also add a bit of rum for extra flavor, but that depends on your preferences.

Preparing the pastry:
4. On a clean surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to a thickness of about 3-4 mm. Cut the sheet into squares, ensuring each square is large enough to wrap an apple.

Filling the apples:
5. In each apple, add a stick of jam, filling it generously. This will add a layer of moisture and flavor, making the apples even more delicious.
6. Generously sprinkle the flavored sugar mixture on each apple, ensuring they are well covered.

Wrapping:
7. Place each apple on a square of pastry, fold the pastry edges over the apple, and seal well. You can form a type of "package" or leave a small opening at the top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Brushing:
8. In a small bowl, beat the yolk with the teaspoon of milk. Using a brush, glaze each wrapped apple with this mixture to achieve a golden and shiny crust.

Baking:
9. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (fan). Place the apples on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them.
10. Bake them for 25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden and crispy. Check the apples from time to time to ensure they do not brown too much.

Serving:
11. After baking, let them cool slightly, then dust with vanilla powdered sugar for a festive look. Serving warm is recommended, either alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with whipped cream, bringing a perfect balance between warm and cold.

Additional tips:
- You can try various types of jam, such as raspberry or berry, for a different taste.
- Add chopped nuts or almonds to the jam filling for extra texture and flavor.
- This dessert pairs perfectly with mulled wine or aromatic tea, transforming it into a delightful culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them excellent for digestive health. Additionally, cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. The puff pastry adds a touch of indulgence, but when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use apples of other sizes?
- It is recommended to use small apples, but you can adapt the recipe for larger apples by increasing the baking time.

2. How can I store leftovers?
- These goodies can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days, but they are best consumed fresh.

3. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
- You can replace the puff pastry with a vegan one and use a mixture of plant-based milk with a teaspoon of oil to brush the apples.

These goodies for carolers are not just a dessert but also an unforgettable experience that will bring a touch of magic to every meal. I wish you happy cooking and to enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!