Apple Puff Pastry Pastries

Ingredients:

Filling:

• 2 Apples: Choose baking varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• 2 tablespoons Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization.
• 1 tablespoon Butter: Enhances richness and helps sauté the apples.
• Pinch of Cinnamon: Complements the apple flavor with a warm spice note.

Pastry and Toppings:

1. Puff Pastry (store-bought, thawed): Provides a light, flaky crust.
2. 3 tablespoons Apricot Jam: For brushing on the pastries, adds sweetness and shine. Substitute with melted peach jam or butter if desired.
3. 3 tablespoons Sliced Almonds: Adds crunch and visual appeal. Alternatively, use chopped walnuts or pecans.
4. 1 Egg Yolk + 1 teaspoon Milk (for egg wash): Creates a golden, shiny crust.
5. Powdered Sugar (optional): For dusting and added elegance.

Instructions:

Prep the Apples (2 minutes):

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).Wash and core the apples. Peel if desired, then thinly slice them for even cooking.

Sauté the Apples (3 minutes):

In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced apples and sugar, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Sprinkle with cinnamon and cook for an additional minute.

Assemble and Style (3 minutes):

Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into squares or desired shapes.
Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each pastry square.

Glaze and Bake (15-20 minutes):

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash. Brush the edges of the pastry squares with this mixture.
Fold the pastry squares into triangles or other shapes, sealing the edges with a fork. Brush the tops with the egg wash and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve and Enjoy:

Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.