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Introduction:
If you're craving a sweet and aromatic pastry with the perfect balance of fruitiness and warmth, this Apple Cinnamon Puff Pastry with Apricot Jam is the answer! The buttery, flaky puff pastry complements the spiced apple filling, while the apricot jam adds a layer of sweetness and tang that makes every bite irresistible. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert, this treat is quick to prepare yet feels like a special indulgence.
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
2 medium apples (such as Gala or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
2 tbsp apricot jam (or preserve)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the apples are tender and the mixture is syrupy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. If necessary, roll it out slightly to ensure it's an even thickness. Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on the shape you prefer.
Assemble the Pastries: Place a spoonful of the cooled apple mixture in the center of each pastry square or rectangle. Add a dollop of apricot jam on top of the apples.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the edges of the puff pastry for a golden, shiny finish.
Bake: Transfer the assembled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
Finishing Touch: Once out of the oven, allow the pastries to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar (if desired). Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: These pastries are perfect for serving as a dessert after dinner or as a treat with coffee or tea. They’re also great for brunch or a sweet addition to a breakfast spread.
Storing: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place the pastries in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a warm oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Freezing: These pastries freeze well before baking. Simply assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 1 month. To bake, follow the original instructions without thawing the pastries.
Variants:
Peach Jam Substitute: If you prefer a different fruit jam, swap out apricot jam for peach, raspberry, or strawberry jam. Each will give the pastry a slightly different flavor but maintain the same delicious sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the apple filling before sealing the pastry. The nuts add texture and a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon apples.
Caramel Drizzle: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked pastries just before serving. The combination of caramel with the apples and cinnamon is sure to wow your guests.
Spiced Apple Variations: To elevate the flavor, try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the apple filling, or even a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of warmth.
FAQ:
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