Apple Cinnamon Puff Pastries

Apple Cinnamon Puff Pastries are a delightful treat that combine the flaky texture of puff pastry with the aromatic sweetness of apple and cinnamon. This delicious pastry is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it an ideal recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers. By using pre-made puff pastry, you can save time and effort while still achieving a beautiful and tasty result. The hint of vanilla adds depth to the flavor, while the melted butter provides richness. The process of rolling the thinly sliced apples within the pastry gives a visually appealing look. Quick to prepare, these pastries have a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen while baking. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, they are an irresistible treat for apple lovers. These pastries pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 sheets of puff pastry
• 1 apple
• Cinnamon
• Sugar
• Vanilla sugar
• Butter
• 1 egg for brushing
• Flour for rolling the dough

Preparation Time

45 minutes total.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Thaw the Puff Pastry: Allow the sheets of puff pastry to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes until pliable.

2. Prepare the Worksurface: Lightly sprinkle flour on a clean surface to prevent the dough from sticking when rolled out.

3. Roll Out the Pastry: Gently roll each sheet of pastry slightly, but avoid making it too thin. You want it to be firm enough to hold the fillings.

4. Peel and Slice the Apple: Peel the apple and cut it in half or quarters, whichever is easier for handling. Use a peeler to create very thin slices for ease of rolling.

5. Cut the Pastry: Slice the pastry into long strips, ensuring they are not too narrow, as this will make them difficult to handle.

6. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla sugar onto the pastry strips according to taste preferences.

7. Arrange Apple Slices: Lay apple slices along the edge of each strip so that the curved side slightly overlaps the edge of the pastry.

8. Add Butter: Dot small pieces of butter along the bottom edge of the pastry, which will melt and add flavor to the filling.

9. Roll the Pastry: Carefully roll each strip, encasing the apple slices within and creating a spiral effect. Thinly sliced apples ensure the pastry rolls neatly.

10. Prepare Baking Forms: Place the rolled pastries into muffin or cupcake forms. Silicone molds are ideal, but thick paper forms work as well, as they provide support during baking.

11. Add any Extras: Consider topping the rolls with a spoonful of jam before baking for added flavor, such as raspberry.

12. Brush with Egg: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a golden finish.

13. Bake the Pastries: Place the prepared pastries on a baking rack to prevent burning the bottoms. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 20 minutes or until golden and set.

14. Check for Doneness: Ensure the pastries have browned adequately and the pastries are cooked through.

15. Cool Slightly: Allow the pastries to cool for a few minutes before serving, as they are delicious warm or at room temperature.

16. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pastry rolls, maybe with a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness, and pair them with your favorite hot beverage.

Tips

• Thin Slicing: Use a vegetable peeler for ultra-thin apple slices, which makes rolling easier.
• Form Choice: Using multiple paper forms helps maintain the shape if silicone forms aren’t available.
• Jam Topper: Experiment with different jams, like apricot or berry, for a unique twist.

Best Places

1. Café de Paris - A classic venue known for its pastries and coffee in a cozy French atmosphere. Location: 7 Rue de Berri, Paris, France.

2. The Urban Pantry - A modern café offering fresh, local pastries in a bustling environment. Location: 1108 8 Ave SW, Calgary, Canada.

3. The London Tearoom - Celebrated for its delightful afternoon teas and pastries with a British flair. Location: 3128 Olive St, St. Louis, USA.

4. Bæst - An Italian-themed restaurant offering delicious baked goods and pizza. Location: Guldbergsgade 29, Copenhagen, Denmark.

5. Balthazar - A vibrant bistro serving French-inspired pastries and cuisine. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.

6. Hansel & Gretel - A whimsical café known for its creative pastry offerings. Location: 26 Swanston St, Melbourne, Australia.

7. Bread Ahead Bakery - Famous for its artisan pastries and baking classes. Location: Borough Market, London, UK.

8. Café Sacher Wien - Renowned for the Sachertorte and classic Viennese pastries. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.

9. Pastelaria Versailles - A treasured bakery with a long history in delectable pastries. Location: Avenida da República 15A, Lisbon, Portugal.

10. Pasticceria Marchesi - Deserves mention for offering delicate and traditional Italian pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, Milan, Italy.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Vegan: Use margarine instead of butter and a plant-based milk for brushing instead of the egg.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Pair with a hot cup of black tea or coffee for an indulgent snack.
• Accompany with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.