Description
This Caramel Apple Puff Pastry is the ultimate fall treat, combining the delicious sweetness of apples with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and rich caramel, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky puff pastry. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make dessert will fill your kitchen with the cozy aromas of autumn. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, these little pockets of sweetness are sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to balance sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening, optional)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, from frozen section)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk or water (to mix with the egg wash)
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: powdered sugar, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and slice apples into thin wedges. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and release their juices. If the filling appears too runny, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 8 equal rectangles or squares. Place half the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Assemble the Pastries: Spoon a small amount of apple filling into the center of each pastry square. Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Place another piece of puff pastry on top (if making closed pockets), or fold over into triangles. Seal the edges with a fork to prevent leaks. Brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful golden color.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool slightly.
- Serve: Drizzle with additional caramel sauce. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Be sure to let the apple filling cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy puff pastry.
- The caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less to your liking.
- If you like nuts, feel free to add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for added crunch.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes