Apple Croissants

Apple Croissants - Fluffy Delights for the Soul and Senses

When it comes to desserts that combine the warm aroma of apples with the fluffy texture of dough, apple croissants are undoubtedly an inspired choice. These treats will not only delight your taste buds but will also make you feel at home, evoking pleasant childhood memories. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare these delicious croissants, step by step, with tricks and tips to ensure a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 croissants

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 550 g flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (approximately 25 g)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- 1 egg + 1 egg white (at room temperature)
- 300 ml lukewarm milk (not hot)
- 125 g butter (melted)

For the filling:
- 1200 g apples (approximately 4-5 large apples)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons milk

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and mix gently with a fork or whisk. This step helps to evenly distribute the salt in the flour.

Then, make a well in the center of the flour and add the fresh yeast that you have previously dissolved in 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sprinkle a little flour over the yeast to protect it from moisture.

Warm the milk slightly (until it becomes lukewarm, not hot) and add the sugar, vanilla sugar, and vanilla essence. Pour this mixture over the flour, along with the egg and egg white.

Start kneading the dough, gradually incorporating the melted butter. Knead until you obtain a homogeneous, elastic dough that no longer sticks to your hands.

2. Allow to rise:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume (about 1 hour). In the meantime, you can prepare the filling.

3. Preparing the filling:
Peel the apples and grate them with a large grater. Place them in a pot and add the sugar and cinnamon. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the juice released by the apples reduces.

Once reduced, let the filling cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a crust from forming.

4. Forming the croissants:
After the dough has risen, divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each part out on a floured surface, forming a sheet that is not too thin.

Use a knife to cut the sheet in half vertically, then cut each half into triangles (two diagonal cuts). Fill each triangle with the apple filling, being careful not to overload it, to prevent the croissant from opening during baking.

Fold the edges of the triangles to form the croissant and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Beat the egg yolk with the 3 tablespoons of milk and brush each croissant with this mixture to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Bake the croissants for 25-30 minutes or until golden. Then, let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions:
Apple croissants can be served plain, but adding a spoonful of sour cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will turn them into an unforgettable dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even your favorite fruit jams.

2. Can I make the dough in advance?
Sure! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. The next day, let it come to room temperature before using it.

3. How can I store the croissants?
They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge, but it is recommended to consume them freshly baked to enjoy the fluffy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apple croissants are a good source of fiber, thanks to the apples in the filling, and provide a dose of energy due to the carbohydrates from the flour and sugar. However, consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, apple croissants are not only a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to your days. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the results with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!