Puff pastry filled with apples

Apple-filled puff pastry - a quick and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn't remember the enticing aroma of baked apples? The apple-filled puff pastry is a simple dessert that revives memories and joys, quickly becoming a favorite for everyone. Whether you want to impress guests or indulge in a sweet treat on weekend evenings, this recipe is perfect for you.

The history of this dessert has its roots in culinary traditions of using seasonal fruits in delicious dishes. Apples, with their crisp texture and natural sweetness, are ideal for the puff pastry filling. Plus, using store-bought puff pastry saves time and effort without compromising quality.

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 healthy apples (ideally medium-sized, but not too large)
- 100 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (for a more intense flavor)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 1 package of puff pastry (about 400-500 g)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Ingredient details:

- Apples: Choose apples that are firm and blemish-free. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples are excellent options due to their balance of sweet and tart.
- Sugar: I recommend white sugar, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Cinnamon: This not only adds a fragrant taste but also has nutritional benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties.
- Puff pastry: Store-bought is an excellent choice, but make sure it is of good quality. You can choose additive-free options for a healthier dessert.

Step by step - how to make apple-filled puff pastry:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples. Use a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler to get a thin peel. Once peeled, grate them. If you prefer, you can cut the apples into small cubes, but grating will help release the juices and facilitate mixing with sugar and cinnamon.

2. Filling mixture: In a bowl, combine the grated apples with sugar and cinnamon. Mix well so that each piece of apple is evenly coated with sugar and spices. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the apples to release their juices.

3. Preparing the pastry: Meanwhile, take the puff pastry out of the fridge and let it thaw according to the package instructions. Once thawed, roll it out on a clean surface dusted with a little flour to prevent sticking.

4. Filling the pastry: Cut the pastry into squares of about 10 cm x 10 cm. In the center of each square, add a tablespoon of the apple filling. Don’t overdo it with the amount, as the filling will ooze during baking.

5. Folding: Fold the corners of the pastry square over the filling, forming a package. Gently press the edges to seal well. You can use a fork to seal the edges, giving a decorative touch.

6. Egg wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to brush each puff pastry package. This will help achieve a golden and shiny color during baking.

7. Baking: Place the puff pastry packages on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look.

Serving suggestion: This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. You can also add some toasted nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Possible variations: You can replace the apples with pears or peaches for another delicious flavor. Additionally, you can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for an interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of dough?: Yes, you can use pie dough or even pizza dough, although the texture will be different.
- How can I store leftovers?: If there are leftover puff pastry packages, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, but it’s best to consume them fresh. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Nutritional benefits: Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and A, and antioxidants, while cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory effects.

Calories: Each serving of apple-filled puff pastry contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used, making this dessert a decent choice for a sweet snack.

The apple-filled puff pastry is more than just a simple dessert; it is an experience that combines classic and nostalgic flavors with ease of preparation. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!