This caramelized apple-filled pastry brings together everything comforting about home baking. Crisp, golden puff pastry surrounds a warm filling of tender apples coated in butter, sugar, and cinnamon. The texture contrast is what makes it special. Light, flaky layers on the outside and a soft, fragrant apple center on the inside. It feels indulgent, nostalgic, and surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for relaxed weekends, brunch tables, or a cozy dessert served warm.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water, optional
- 1 sheet puff pastry, about 250 g, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten, for brushing
- Powdered sugar, optional
Instructions
Prepare the apple filling
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well so the apples are evenly coated.
Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the mixture becomes glossy and caramel-like. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice. If a thicker filling is preferred, add the cornstarch mixture and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Prepare the pastry
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles.
Spoon the apple filling onto one side of each piece, leaving a border around the edges.
Seal and bake
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a pocket. Press the edges firmly and seal with a fork. Make a small slit on top to release steam. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden.
Serve
Allow the pastries to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 18 g
Why This Recipe Works
Caramelizing the apples before baking removes excess moisture and concentrates flavor. Puff pastry provides structure and crispness without complicated dough preparation, resulting in a pastry that tastes bakery-made with minimal effort.
Storage and Reheating
Store baked pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 5 to 8 minutes to restore crispness. Unbaked pastries can be frozen and baked directly from frozen with a few extra minutes added.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with coffee or tea, or turn it into a plated dessert with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce. These pastries also work well for brunch alongside yogurt and fresh fruit.
This caramelized apple-filled pastry delivers classic flavors in a simple, reliable way. Flaky, fragrant, and deeply comforting, it is the kind of recipe that fits effortlessly into any season and quickly becomes a repeat favorite.
