Apple Puff Pastry

This Apple Puff Pastry recipe brings together tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and creamy cheesecake-like filling inside golden, flaky puff pastry. A simple, homemade treat that looks bakery-worthy but is easy enough to make with store-bought dough. Perfect for holiday desserts, weekend brunches, or anytime you’re craving a cozy apple pastry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and elegant: Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
• Perfect balance: Tart apples with sweet creamy filling.
• Great make-ahead treat: Reheats well and stores easily.
• Crowd-pleaser: Impressive presentation with minimal effort.
• Comforting flavors: A mix of warm cinnamon apples and creamy cheesecake in every bite.

Ingredients

Apple Filling

• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, core removed and diced into small pieces
• ¾ cups water
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 ounce cream cheese
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Egg Wash

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• Coarse sugar, for topping.

Other

• 1 box puff pastry sheets

Directions

Prepare Apple Filling

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, ¾ cup water, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir to mix.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
4. Slowly stir cornstarch slurry into the simmering apple mixture.
5. Cook while stirring until the mixture thickens (about 2–3 minutes).
6. Add lemon juice, stir well, and remove from heat.
7. Let the filling cool completely before using.

Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sugar, egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Beat until creamy and well combined. Set aside.

Puff Pastry

1. Thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions (usually about 30–40 minutes at room temp).
2. Preheat oven to 375°F.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. On a lightly floured surface, unfold each sheet and gently roll out to smooth seams.
5. Cut each sheet into equal rectangles (typically 6 pieces per sheet).

Fill and Seal Pastries

1. Spoon about a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry rectangle.
2. Top with a spoonful of cooled apple filling.
3. Fold the pastry over to form a pocket (either triangle or rectangle).
4. Press edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Cut small slits in the top to vent steam.

Egg Wash and Bake

1. Beat egg with water to make egg wash.
2. Brush each pastry with the egg wash.
3. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for crunch and sparkle.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
5. Remove from oven and cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Cool fillings before assembling: Hot filling can make the pastry soggy.
• Use other apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji also work well.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch.
• Drizzle with glaze: Mix powdered sugar and milk for a simple icing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature. These pastries pair well with coffee or tea, and can be served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1–2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, which softens the pastry.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely, though store-bought makes this much easier and quicker.

What apples work best?
Granny Smith is best for tartness and structure, but other firm apples can be used.

Conclusion

Apple Puff Pastry recipe is the perfect blend of ease and elegance. With flaky pastry, rich cream cheese, and tender apples, it’s a treat that feels indulgent without the stress. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want to enjoy a cozy dessert, these pastries deliver every time.

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