Apple Pastries with Spiced Sand Crust

This delightful recipe combines the comforting flavors of warm apples and the subtle spices of cinnamon within a delicate pastry. Made with simple ingredients, these apple pastries offer a buttery, flaky crust that encloses a luscious apple filling, perfect for any dessert table. The dough is easy to handle and can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for planning ahead. These pastries make a fantastic treat for holiday gatherings or family desserts. The addition of cinnamon adds a fragrant, warming touch that elevates the natural sweetness of the apples. The sand crust ensures a unique texture, both delicate and satisfying. Perfectly paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, these pastries will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are a baking novice or a pastry pro, this recipe will guide you to a delicious outcome. Serve them warm for an unparalleled experience of comfort and delight.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups Flour
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1/4 cup Sugar
• 1 pinch Salt
• 4 Apples
• 1/2 cup Butter/Margarine

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl, which will ensure that your pastry is light and airy.
2. Cut the butter or margarine into small cubes and add it to the flour.
3. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. Gradually add the water, sugar, and a pinch of salt, mixing with your hands to form a dough.
5. Knead the dough lightly until it forms a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork it as this can make the pastry tough.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours to develop flavor and make it easier to roll out.
7. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or set your microwave to an appropriate baking function if preferred.
8. After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts.
9. Roll out each piece on a lightly floured surface, ensuring that one is slightly larger than the other to act as the base.
10. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, uniform pieces.
11. Mix the apples with additional sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
12. Place the smaller rolled dough onto a baking tray and spread the apple mixture evenly over it.
13. Cover with the larger piece of dough, pressing the edges together firmly to seal.
14. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastry, preventing the filling from leaking out during baking.
15. For a golden brown finish, brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg or milk.
16. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes until the pastry is golden and crisp.
17. Allow to cool slightly before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
18. Enjoy your pastries warm for a sumptuous, comforting dessert experience.
19. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
20. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best results.

Tips

• To save time, prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
• For an added crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking.
• Substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• For a gluten-free option, replace the flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
• Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
• Add raisins or dried cranberries to the apple mixture for additional texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce before serving for added indulgence.

Best Places

• Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki Paris - Known for innovative and delicious pastries with a unique blend of Japanese and French techniques. Location: 56 Boulevard de Port-Royal, Paris, France.
• Demel - Famous Austrian café known for classic pastries like Apfelstrudel. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Tartine Manufactory - Offers a contemporary take on traditional pastries and breads. Location: 595 Alabama St, San Francisco, CA, USA.
• Bäckerei Hinkel - A beloved bakery that crafts artisanal bread and delicious apple pastries. Location: Hohe Str. 44, 40213 Düsseldorf, Germany.
• Conditorei Schober - Cozy café renowned for its homemade cakes and pastries. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zürich, Switzerland.
• Gail's Bakery - A modern artisan bakery with a passion for quality ingredients and innovative flavors. Location: 128 Wardour St, Soho, London, UK.
• Passion Patisserie - Offers a selection of exquisite pastries that highlight seasonal ingredients. Location: Jægersborggade 4, 2200 København N, Denmark.
• La Pastisseria Barcelona - Unique pastry creations from an award-winning pastry chef. Location: Carrer de l'Arrabassada, 5, 08022 Barcelona, Spain.
• Black Star Pastry - Known for its inventive pastries and the iconic strawberry watermelon cake. Location: 277 Australia St, Newtown NSW 2042, Australia.
• Le Meurice - Offers exquisite pastries in a luxurious setting, perfect for indulgent afternoon tea. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.