Apples baked on puff pastry

Ingredients

Baked Apples

4 apples (approximately 800 grams or 28 ounces)
1 sheet of puff pastry (ready-made, approximately 275 grams or 9.7 ounces)

Equipment

Oven
Preheat your oven to achieve the perfect bake every time! Ensure it's set to 392F (200C).
Baking Tray
A well-lined baking tray is essential. Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper for easy clean-up.
Knife
A sharp knife will allow you to cut the puff pastry cleanly, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
Pastry Brush
A pastry brush is your best friend for evenly spreading melted butter on the pastry and apples.
Mixing Bowl
Use this to mix melted butter, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon for that luscious coating.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Preheat your oven to 392°F (200°C).

Step 2

2. Melt 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of butter in a small saucepan. Mix in 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of ground cinnamon until well combined. You can also melt the butter in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Step 3

3. Cut the apples in halves and carefully remove the core using a melon baller or a small spoon. Make a few shallow cuts on the surface of the apples to help them bake evenly. Be careful not to cut all the way through the apples.

Step 4

4. Place the apple halves cut-side down on the sheet of puff pastry. Using a sharp knife, cut around the apples to form shapes that resemble apples with leaves.

Step 5

5. Brush the apple halves and the surrounding puff pastry with the melted butter mixture. Ensure you cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.

Step 6

6. Place the prepared apple pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 7

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. Check frequently towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

Servings

Impress your guests with these serving suggestions:

For a rustic vibe, serve these baked apples warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨 that melts just enough to blend with the warm apple and flaky pastry.

Feeling fancy? Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with a bit of crushed nuts for an elegant touch. 🍯

For a cozy autumn feel, dust with additional ground cinnamon and pair with a cup of hot spiced cider. 🍎🍁

Hosting a dinner party? Serve these delights with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprig of mint for a sophisticated dessert presentation.

Turn it into a breakfast treat by serving with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. 🍯✨

Enjoy these versatile baked apples and let your creativity run wild!

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation:

For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the puff pastry for a ready-made gluten-free puff pastry available at most supermarkets. Be sure to check the baking time as gluten-free pastries might bake slightly faster.

Vegan Variation:🌱

Opt for a vegan puff pastry (many store-bought versions are surprisingly vegan!). Instead of butter, use a plant-based butter or margarine. For sweetness, swap the powdered sugar with a vegan-friendly alternative like coconut sugar.

Faq

Why is my puff pastry not rising?
Make sure your oven is properly preheated and avoid over-handling the dough to ensure it stays cold enough to puff up.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the apples and puff pastry a few hours ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake.
How can I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure your apples are patted dry and consider using a layer of ground nuts or breadcrumbs under the apple to absorb excess moisture.
Can I use a different fruit?
Absolutely! Pears are a great alternative and bake beautifully in puff pastry. Adjust cooking time if necessary.
How can I achieve a professional look?
Use a sharp knife to make precise cuts and consider using a lattice cutter for a stunning top crust effect.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.