Description
Delicate and visually stunning Puff Pastry Apple Roses combine thinly sliced apples and buttery puff pastry, baked to golden perfection and glazed with apricot jam for a glossy finish. These elegant treats make for a perfect dessert or afternoon snack, with a delightful balance of tender fruit, flaky pastry, and warm cinnamon aroma.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples and Filling
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
- 1/4 cup apricot jam or preserves (or honey as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Puff Pastry and Finish
- 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Slice the apples in half and remove the cores. Cut them into very thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure they can be easily shaped.
- Soften Apples: Place the apple slices in a microwave-safe bowl with lemon juice and cinnamon. Toss to coat evenly. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until the slices are slightly softened but remain pliable, which helps in forming the rose shapes.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into strips about 1.5 inches wide and 8-10 inches long.
- Brush with Butter: Lightly brush each pastry strip with the melted butter to add flavor and help with browning.
- Assemble the Apple Roses: Lay the softened apple slices along the top edge of each puff pastry strip, overlapping them slightly so the rounded edges face outward, creating the “petals.” Tuck the thinner edges under the pastry strip.
- Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom edge of the puff pastry up over the apple slices to secure them, then carefully roll the pastry strip from one end to the other, shaping it into a rose.
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) in preparation for baking.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the assembled apple roses in a muffin tin to hold their shape, or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optional Egg Wash: If desired, brush the tops of the roses with an egg wash made from 1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water for a glossy, golden finish.
- Bake: Bake the apple roses for 30-35 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and allow the apple roses to cool for a few minutes before glazing.
- Glaze with Jam: Warm the apricot jam in the microwave for 10-15 seconds and brush it over the apple slices on each rose for a beautiful glossy finish.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Optionally, dust the cooled apple roses lightly with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Notes
- Use thin apple slices for easier rolling and better rose shape formation.
- Microwaving the apples softens them just enough so they bend without breaking.
- Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast, while Gala apples provide more sweetness; choose based on your preference.
- Egg wash is optional but will give a nice golden sheen to the pastry.
- Apricot jam adds a shiny glaze and subtle fruity sweetness; alternatives like honey can also be used.
- Leftover apple roses can be stored in an airtight container and gently reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
