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1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare the apples. Peel and core the apples, making sure to remove all the seeds. If you prefer a softer texture, you can slice off the tops of the apples to create a flat surface for the puff pastry to sit on.
Next, in a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Sprinkle this mixture inside the hollowed-out core of each apple, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Wrap the Apples in Puff Pastry:
Roll out the sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 4 equal squares, each large enough to wrap around one apple.
Place each apple in the center of a puff pastry square and fold the corners of the pastry up around the apple, sealing it at the top. Brush the top edges of the pastry with melted butter to help it stick.
Once the apples are wrapped, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this wash over the puff pastry to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked. This will also help the pastry become beautifully crisp and flaky.
4. Bake the Pastry-Wrapped Apples:
Place the wrapped apples in the preheated oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up around the apples. The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape.
While the apples are baking, you can prepare the caramel sauce and cinnamon cream.
5. Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, being careful of splattering, and whisk to combine. Continue to cook the caramel for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool slightly before serving.
6. Make the Cinnamon Cream:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the cream until it forms soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want the cream to be smooth and fluffy, not stiff.
7. Assemble the Dessert:
Once the puff pastry-wrapped apples are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Transfer each apple to a serving plate.
Drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over the top of each pastry-wrapped apple. Then, dollop a spoonful of the cinnamon cream next to the apple or on top, depending on your preference.
You can garnish with extra cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Apples: Apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, are ideal for this recipe. Avoid overly soft varieties that may collapse during baking.
- Add More Flavor: Feel free to add raisins or chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) inside the apples for added texture and flavor.
- Caramel Variations: For a deeper flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the caramel sauce as it cooks, or even a teaspoon of maple syrup for a subtle sweetness.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the apples wrapped in pastry and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before baking, so the puff pastry puffs up evenly.
Conclusion: A Dessert Worth Indulging In
Puff Pastry Wrapped Apples with Caramel Sauce and Cinnamon Cream is a dessert that offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a must-try for any occasion. The flaky puff pastry, tender apples, and luxurious caramel sauce and cinnamon cream create a decadent treat that will impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings.
Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dessert is bound to become a new favorite. So go ahead, wrap those apples in buttery puff pastry, drizzle with caramel, and top with cinnamon cream—your taste buds will thank you!
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