Puff pastry wrapped apples with caramel sauce and cinnamon cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into halves or quarters, depending on their size. You want the apples to be thick enough to hold their shape during baking. Drizzle the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, and set them aside.

2. Season the Apples

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Toss the apple slices in the sugar-spice mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This will enhance their flavor and provide a lovely spiced sweetness when baked.

3. Wrap the Apples in Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into squares or rectangles large enough to wrap each apple slice. You should have about four squares or rectangles to wrap each apple half. Place the apple slices in the center of each piece of pastry.

Brush the edges of the pastry with melted butter, then fold the pastry around the apple, sealing it tightly. You can either fully enclose the apple or leave the top exposed for a more rustic look. Press the seams to ensure the pastry stays closed during baking.

4. Bake the Pastry-Wrapped Apples

Place the wrapped apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the pastry with any remaining melted butter and sprinkle with a bit of sugar for an extra golden, crispy finish. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up, and the apples are tender.

5. Make the Caramel Sauce

While the apples are baking, prepare the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble. Once it starts boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly. The sauce should thicken slightly and become smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.

6. Prepare the Cinnamon Cream

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This cinnamon cream should be light and fluffy with a nice hint of spice to complement the dessert.

7. Assemble and Serve

Once the puff pastry-wrapped apples are out of the oven and slightly cooled, plate each one. Drizzle generously with warm caramel sauce and top with a dollop of cinnamon cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top of the cream or garnish with a mint leaf or chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds.

Tips for a Perfect Dessert

• Choosing the Right Apples: Use apples that hold their shape well when baked, such as Granny Smith, Gala, or Fuji. Sweet or tart apples will work equally well depending on your flavor preference.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the puff pastry-wrapped apples ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option if you’re entertaining and want to reduce your prep time the day of the event.
• Caramel Sauce Variations: For a richer caramel flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the sauce just before it finishes cooking. Alternatively, add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel twist.
• Cream Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap the heavy cream for a whipped coconut cream or use Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

Why You’ll Love Puff Pastry Wrapped Apples with Caramel Sauce and Cinnamon Cream

• Indulgent Yet Balanced: The dessert is rich in flavor but not overwhelming, with the caramel sauce and cinnamon cream perfectly complementing the light and airy puff pastry.
• Perfect for Fall and Winter: The combination of warm apples, cinnamon, and caramel gives this dessert a cozy, seasonal feel, making it ideal for autumn or holiday gatherings.
• Impressive Presentation: This dessert looks as good as it tastes. The golden-brown puff pastry, glistening caramel, and fluffy cream make for a stunning visual presentation, sure to impress your guests.

Conclusion

Puff Pastry Wrapped Apples with Caramel Sauce and Cinnamon Cream is a decadent dessert that combines the best elements of comfort food and fine pastry. The flaky pastry, sweet apples, rich caramel, and spiced cream create a dessert experience that’s truly special. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just looking for a way to indulge, this dish is guaranteed to delight. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to a little slice of heaven with this irresistible dessert!