Apple Pastries Baked in the Oven

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Ingredients:

  • 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated.
  3. Assemble the Pastries: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into squares (about 4×4 inches). Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a sealed packet.
  4. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each one with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
  5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown. The apples should be tender, and the pastry should be flaky.
  6. Serve: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm with a scoop of  vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.

Cooking Tips:

  • Can I use a different type of apple?
    Yes, while Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best due to their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Golden Delicious for a sweeter flavor.
  • How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?
    To prevent sogginess, make sure your apple filling isn’t too wet. The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and acidity but don’t add too much. Also, brush the puff pastry lightly with butter before adding the filling.
  • Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble the pastries in advance and freeze them. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs:

  • Can I use homemade puff pastry?
    Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will give you an even flakier and richer pastry. Just make sure to roll it out to the correct thickness for best results.
  • What other fillings can I use?
    These pastries are versatile! Try using pear slices, berries, or even a mixture of apples and caramel for a different twist.
  • How long do these pastries stay fresh?
     Apple pastries are best enjoyed the same day they are baked, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.

Nutritional Information:
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving of these Apple Pastries:

  • Calories: 300 per pastry
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbs: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 12g

Conclusion:
Apple Pastries Baked in the Oven are a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. The combination of flaky puff pastry and spiced apple filling is a classic that never fails to please.