This easy apple puff pastry recipe is quick, simple, and endlessly customizable! It’s also so lip-smacking good with Granny Smith apples made into gooey and sweet apple pie filling. Bring these to the next gathering, and you’re going to look like a dessert expert, worthy of sharing this treat. This is the apple pie puff pastry dessert to bring the aroma, taste, and feel of traditional cinnamon-baked apples in a buttery, flaky crust right into your home. Step by step images included.
Table of contents
What is Apple Puff Pastry
Simply put, buttery, flaky, and rich layers of puff pastry envelop the most beautiful and perfectly made apple pie filling that creates a hand-held dreamy dessert.
The apple pie filling is wrapped up into one of the best types of crust known to man and the result, a golden treat with an oozy center of sweet and tart apples and the sauce that is the exact texture, better than store bought.
A Brief History of Puff Pastry and Apple Desserts
Puff pastry, or pâte feuilletée, has roots in French cuisine but likely traces its origins to Middle Eastern layered dough techniques brought to Europe during the Crusades. By the 17th century, the modern version of puff pastry emerged, perfected by French chefs like Claude Lorrain, who is often credited with its invention.
Apples have long been a staple ingredient in European baking, with desserts like strudel and tarts showcasing their versatility. Combining apples with puff pastry became a natural evolution of baking traditions, particularly as puff pastry spread across Europe.
Iconic dishes like the French Tarte Tatin and Austrian Apfelstrudel set the stage for today’s simpler, quicker apple puff pastry creations.
In relation, Asian dessert have been influenced by many French recipes and methods. Thus, they love tea time and flaky crusts adorned with fruits and it’s very common to find apple filled pastries, apple turnovers, and many other apple puff pastry delights in plenty of Asian cafés and bakeries.
One of my faves is Paris Baguette which is in my local Korean grocery store…and they have one of the very best apple puff pastry selections ever! I always get a variety of fruit and apple desserts there.
Now, thanks to store-bought puff pastry, anyone can create a dessert that echoes centuries of culinary history in under 30 minutes!
How Apple Pie Connects to Asian Cuisine
While apple pie is famously Western, it shares unexpected ties with Asian culinary traditions through ingredients, techniques, and flavors. Not to mention, apple pie is universal! It’s common to see apple pie at Thanksgiving and holidays for any Filipino and many other Asian cultures. When it comes to apple pastries, it’s always welcome!
Spices with Asian Origins
The cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in apple pie trace back to Asia, where they’ve been integral to both sweet and savory dishes for centuries. These warm spices are also prominent in Asian desserts, like spiced buns and teas.
Similar Techniques
Apple pie’s flaky crust mirrors techniques in Asian pastries, like Chinese mooncakes or Japanese melonpan. Turnovers and fried apple pies are comparable to apple-filled spring rolls/lumpia similar to turon, and sweet buns often seen in Asian baking.
Apples in Asia
As the world’s largest apple producer, China has integrated apples into modern recipes, while Japan’s Fuji apples are globally renowned. Apple-based treats like candied apples or apple mochi show the fruit’s rising popularity in Asian cuisine.
Fusion Desserts
Fusion takes on apple pie, like matcha apple pie, ginger-infused filling, or apple sesame tarts, combine traditional flavors with Asian twists, creating a harmonious blend of cultures.
Apple pie’s balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors resonates globally, showing how this classic dessert reflects global culinary connections, including Asia’s influence.
How to Fold Apple Puff Pastry for different Style Desserts
- Squares for turnovers: Fold over into triangles.
- Hand Pies: Fold over into long rectangles.
- Rectangles for open-faced pastries: Spoon filling in the center.
- Whole sheet for a tart: Arrange apple slices decoratively.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- use this homemade, baked and easy Apple Pie Filling
- or canned apple pie filling
For the Pastry:
- 2 sheets store-bought puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water (to mix with egg for egg wash)
- flour – for dusting
Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Baking sheet
- Fork (for sealing pastries)
- Brush (for egg wash)
- Mixing bowl (for any add-ins)
- Measuring spoons (for precise ingredient measurements)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
- Be sure the apple pie filling is cooled down, ready for the pastry.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to ensure even thickness.
- Cut the puff pastry into your desired shape. One sheet can easily make a few squares.
Assemble the Pastries
- Brush the sides of the pastry with egg wash.
- Spoon the cooled apple filling onto the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border for open-faced styles.
- Fold the pastry and seal the edges with a fork.
- Set onto parchment paper that is on a baking sheet.
Freeze and Prep the Pastries
- Place the apple puff pastries into the freezer. Freeze for 15 minutes.
- Poke two small holes on the top of the pastries as necessary.
- Brush tops with egg wash. Now they are ready to bake.
Bake the Pastries
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden. Remove once they look golden, or else the pastry crust will be overcooked and dry. Cool for few minutes on an elevated wire rack.
Notes
This tips will help you be on your way for making the perfect Apple Puff Pastry.
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, select fresh Granny Smith apples that are both sweet and tart.
- Chill Your Pastry: Keeping your puff pastry cold helps it puff up better in the oven. If it gets too warm while you’re working with it, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Even Thickness: When rolling out puff pastry, strive for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking. Too thick in some areas may lead to undercooked spots, while too thin might burn.
- Don’t Overfill: Be sure to leave enough border around the edges of your pastry when adding the apple filling. This will help seal the pastries and prevent any leakage during baking, BUT keep in mind that the filling shrinks down so make it enough.
- Seal Properly: Use a fork to press down the edges of the pastry to secure the filling inside. This also creates a decorative edge! Experiment with different kinds of seals.
- Egg Wash: For a beautiful golden finish, apply an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) on top of your pastries before baking.
- Poking Holes: This prevents the pastry from bursting during baking, or else it will be a mess!
- Watch the Oven: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Start checking on your pastries a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
- Let Them Cool: Allow your pastries to cool for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven. This helps the filling set, keeps them crisp, and makes them easier to handle.
- Experiment with Flavors: Nutmeg, ginger, caramel, or even a splash of bourbon can elevate the flavor profile!
Add Ins and Variations
Add-ins for the Filling:
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- 2 tbsp raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness
- A sprinkle of ground ginger or cardamom for a unique spice twist.
Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for a classic finish
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle for decadence
- Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for serving
Whole Recipe Variations:
- Fried Apple Puff Pastry Dessert
Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
Fry the Pastries
- Fry the pastries in batches, turning occasionally, for 2–3 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels and place on wire rack.
- Apple-Cream Cheese Pastries
Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese (mix 4 oz cream cheese with 2 tbsp powdered sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla) under the apple filling. - Apple-Almond Tart
Sprinkle slivered almonds over the apple filling and drizzle with honey after baking. - Cinnamon Roll-Style Apple Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry, spread the apple filling evenly, roll it up tightly, slice into rounds, and bake for spiral pastries. - Savory-Sweet Pastry
Add a touch of grated sharp cheddar or crumbled blue cheese to the filling for a sophisticated flavor twist.
How to Serve
- Classic: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant and simple presentation, or as is!
- Decadent: Drizzle warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the pastries before serving.
- A la Mode: Pair warm pastries with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
- Brunch-Worthy: Serve with a dollop of chantilly whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup alongside coffee or tea.
This recipe combines the centuries-old allure of puff pastry with the simplicity of modern cooking. Store-bought puff pastry does all the heavy lifting, while the versatile apple filling lets you experiment with flavors. Whether you’re making an everyday treat or a show-stopping dessert, this recipe delivers every time.
Did you make this apple puff pastry recipe? What’s your favorite variation? Share in the comments below! 🍎🥐
EASY APPLE PUFF PASTRY
Equipment
- Parchment Paper
- Rolling Pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- baking sheet
- fork (for sealing pastries)
- Brush (for egg wash)
- mixing bowl (for any add-ins)
- Measuring spoons (for precise ingredient measurements)
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- homemade baked and easy Apple Pie Filling
- or canned apple pie filling
For the Pastry:
- 2 sheets store-bought puff pastry thawed
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water to mix with egg for egg wash
- flour – for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
- Be sure the apple pie filling is cooled down, ready for the pastry.homemade baked and easy Apple Pie Filling, or canned apple pie filling
Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly to ensure even thickness.2 sheets store-bought puff pastry, flour – for dusting
- Cut the puff pastry into your desired shape. One sheet can easily make a few squares.
Assemble the Pastries
- Brush the sides of the pastry with egg wash.1 egg, 1 tbsp water
- Spoon the cooled apple filling onto the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border for open-faced styles.
- Fold the pastry over, do not press down filling but do press the middle and edges of the where the dough connects. Then, seal the edges with a fork all around.
- Set onto parchment paper that is on a baking sheet. Use a spatula if needed so nothing breaks.
Freeze and Prep the Pastries
- Place the apple puff pastries into the freezer. Freeze for 15 minutes.
- Poke two small holes on the top of the pastries as necessary. Then, Brush tops with egg wash. Now they are ready to bake.
Bake the Pastries
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden. Remove once they look golden, or else the pastry crust will be overcooked and dry. Cool down on a wire rack and then serve.
Notes
- Squares for turnovers: Fold over into triangles.
- Hand Pies: Fold over into long rectangles.
- Rectangles for open-faced pastries: Spoon filling in the center.
- Whole sheet for a tart: Arrange apple slices decoratively.
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