Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- Sugar – 100 g
- Butter – 100 g, softened
- Flour – 400 g (adjust as needed for consistency)
- Egg – 1 large
- Milk – 50 ml
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla – To taste (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Salt – A pinch
For the Filling:
- Apples – 1-2, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- Butter – 1 tablespoon
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Cinnamon – To taste (1 teaspoon recommended)
Steps to Make It:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring gently until the dough comes together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until it is smooth and pliable. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped apples, sugar, and cinnamon, stirring to coat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 3-4 mm thickness. Cut into squares or circles, depending on your preference.
- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each. Optionally, brush the tops with an egg wash for a glossy finish.
- Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold the edges over to enclose the filling, pinching or crimping the edges to seal.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and fragrant.
- Let the pastries cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the apple-filled pastries warm, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or milk. They can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
Servings:
40 minutes
10-12 pastries
Nutritional Information (Per Pastry):
- Calories: 200-220 kcal
- Protein: 3-4 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
- Fat: 8-10 g
- Fiber: 1-2 g
Why This Recipe is Timeless:
This recipe’s versatility ensures its place in the hearts of bakers and dessert lovers alike. The dough serves as a perfect canvas for various fillings, while the simplicity of the ingredients makes it approachable for everyone. It’s a recipe that can be passed down through generations, bringing families together in the kitchen and around the table.
The combination of apples and cinnamon has been cherished for centuries, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and the changing seasons. These Classic Apple-Filled Butter Pastries embody this timeless flavor pairing while adding the richness of buttery pastry.
From holidays to everyday moments, these pastries adapt to every occasion. Their nostalgic flavor and aroma evoke memories of home and celebrations, making them a constant in evolving culinary traditions.
FAQs:
Caramelized Apple Cinnamon Cake
Peach Cobbler withCinnamon SugarCrust
Can I use a different fruit for the filling?
What if I don’t have a pastry brush for the egg wash?
Yes! Pears, peaches, or berries work wonderfully as substitutes or additions to the apple filling. Adjust the sugar and cinnamon to suit the fruit’s sweetness.
Use a folded piece of paper towel or your fingers to gently spread the egg wash over the pastries.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.
Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes. Assemble the pastries and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Tips for Making Perfect Pastries:
- Chill the Dough: Keeping the dough cool ensures a flaky texture. Refrigerate it if it becomes too soft while working.
- Use Firm Apples: Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Seal the Edges Well: Prevent filling leakage by securely pinching or crimping the edges of the dough.
- Experiment with Spices: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make sealing difficult and cause leaks during baking.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freezing: Freeze baked pastries in an for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion:
What makes these pastries truly special is their versatility and universal appeal. They can be made for a special occasion, a thoughtful gift, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon. The act of preparing them—kneading the dough, cooking the apples, and shaping the pastries—connects us to the rich traditions of baking and the pleasure of creating something with love and care.
Classic Apple-Filled Butter Pastries are more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity. The buttery, flaky pastry paired with a warm, spiced apple filling is a combination that has stood the test of time, reminding us of the simple joys of home baking.
Every bite of these pastries is a celebration of flavor and texture, from the crispness of the golden crust to the softness of the spiced apple filling. They bring people together, sparking conversations, laughter, and cherished memories. In a world that moves so fast, these pastries are a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and find happiness in the little things.
So whether you’re making these for the first time or revisiting a beloved classic, embrace the magic of these apple-filled delights. Share them with loved ones, experiment with variations, and let the timeless combination of apples and cinnamon warm your heart and