Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry that reveals a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple center, topped with billowy fresh cream and a luxurious caramel drizzle. These Apple Puffs are not just a dessert; they're a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, this recipe promises to impress and delight with its perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 package puff pastry sheets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes. Immediately toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with cinnamon, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheets at room temperature for about 15 minutes until they're pliable but still cold.
- Unfold the pastry sheets and cut each sheet into 4 equal squares using a sharp knife.
- Place a small portion of the spiced apple mixture in the center of each pastry square, leaving a border around the edges.
- Fold the pastry corners towards the center, creating a rustic, slightly open parcel. Gently press the edges to seal.
- Transfer the pastry puffs to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Brush the pastry edges with an egg wash (1 beaten egg) for a golden, glossy finish, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- While the puffs are baking, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Keep chilled.
- Warm the caramel sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the apple puffs from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and drizzled with warm caramel sauce.
Tips
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Work with cold puff pastry to ensure maximum flakiness - keep it refrigerated until just before use.
- Don't overfill your pastry squares; too much filling can prevent proper puffing.
- For a professional touch, use an egg wash to create a beautiful golden sheen on your pastries.
- Serve immediately after cooling to enjoy the optimal contrast between crisp pastry and warm apple filling.
- If whipping cream seems challenging, use an electric mixer and chill the bowl and whisk beforehand for better results.
- Warm the caramel sauce gently to prevent burning and maintain a smooth, pourable consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 276kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 38mg
