Apple pastries with brown butter frosting

Ingredients

Brown butter frosting

170 grams (6 ounces) butter
1 vanilla pod (seeds)
200 grams (7 ounces) sugar
1.5 teaspoons (0.16 ounces) flour
3 large eggs
Pinch of salt

Filling

2 large apples
240 grams (8.5 ounces) brown butter frosting
1 teaspoon (0.1 ounces) cinnamon

Equipment

Saucepan
Used for making brown butter; a lightweight nonstick pan ensures even heating.
Mixing Bowls
Ideal for mixing and cooling the frosting; using multiple sizes can help streamline the process.
Whisk
Perfect for ensuring your frosting is lump-free and smooth.
Baking Dish
Choose between cupcake tins, square pans, or pie dishes depending on your desired pastry shape.
Kitchen Scale
Accuracy is key; weighing ingredients ensures consistent results.

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Use pre-made or homemade puff pastry for this recipe. Tip: Make sure your puff pastry is well-chilled before use to ensure a flaky texture.

Step 2

Step 2: To make brown butter, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring it to a boil. Once it settles, continue heating until it turns an amber color and has a nutty aroma. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3

Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and flour. Slowly pour in the brown butter while continuing to stir. Add a pinch of salt and the seeds from the vanilla pod. Let the mixture cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate until completely chilled. Tip: Chilling the mixture helps the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4

Step 4: In another bowl, combine the finely chopped apples and cinnamon. Add the cooled brown butter frosting and mix well.

Step 5

Step 5: Fill your puff pastry with the mixture. You can create individual pastries, squares, or even a large pie with this delicious filling. Tip: Ensure the edges of your pastries are sealed well to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.

Servings

A warm pastry right out of the oven can brighten any day, but let's take it up a notch! Serve these delightful treats with a scoop of your favorite vanilla bean ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. If you're feeling fancy, try drizzling some caramel sauce over the top—trust us, you won't regret it. Hosting a brunch? Pair your pastries with a fresh mimosa or a steaming cup of coffee. Whether it's a festive gathering or a quiet evening at home, these little apple-cinnamon delights are sure to add a sprinkle of joy to any occasion.

Variations

Want to go gluten-free? Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your puff pastry is also gluten-free. For a vegan twist, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead—just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. With these easy swaps, everyone can enjoy these sweet, aromatic pastries.

Faq

Why is my brown butter burning?
Ensure you're using medium heat and constantly stirring; once you see an amber color and smell a nutty aroma, remove it from the heat immediately.
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly fine and saves you time in the kitchen.
How do I make my filling less runny?
Make sure to cool the frosting completely before mixing it with the apples; you can also add a bit more flour to thicken the mixture.
Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble them, then freeze before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, pop them right into the oven.
How do I achieve the perfect puff pastry rise?
Ensure your dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid opening the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking.
What if my pastries aren't browning evenly?
Rotate your baking dish halfway through the bake time to ensure even browning on all sides.