This Apple and Custard Puff Pastry recipe is a delightful treat that combines creamy homemade custard, caramelized apples, and flaky puff pastry. Perfect for dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, these pastries are easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
Preparation Time:
- Prep: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Custard:
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 8 g vanilla sugar
- 300 ml milk
- 1 tsp butter
For the Apples:
- 2 apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Pastry:
- Puff pastry sheets (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp milk (for egg wash)
- Sliced almonds
- Soft sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Prepare the Custard:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla sugar.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the butter and remove from heat. Let the custard cool in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Apples:
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook until the apples are tender and caramelized. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble the Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut into squares.
- Place a spoonful of cooled custard and caramelized apples in the center of each square.
- Fold the pastry to form a pocket and seal the edges using a fork.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Brush the pastry with egg wash, sprinkle with sliced almonds, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Dust with soft sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and serve on a dessert platter.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Cooking Tips:
- Use chilled puff pastry for easier handling and better puffing.
- Don’t overfill the pastry to avoid leakage during baking.
- For a glossy finish, use the egg wash generously.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for an aromatic twist.
- Freeze the pastries before baking if prepping ahead; bake directly from frozen.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples provide dietary fiber and natural sweetness.
- Milk and eggs in the custard offer protein and calcium.
- Cinnamon contains antioxidants and can help regulate blood sugar.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made dairy-free with plant-based milk, butter, and puff pastry.
- Contains gluten, eggs, and nuts (almonds).
Nutritional Facts (Per Pastry):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days, reheating in the oven to crisp up.
- Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen when ready.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Combines creamy custard and sweet apples in a flaky pastry.
- Easy to customize with different fillings or toppings.
- Great for entertaining or a quick dessert fix.
- Perfectly balanced sweetness with a touch of cinnamon warmth.
Conclusion:
These Apple and Custard Puff Pastries are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, from the creamy filling to the crisp, golden pastry. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed the next day, they’re a versatile dessert perfect for any occasion. Impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant treat!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use store-bought custard instead of making it from scratch?
- How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
- Can I substitute pears for apples in this recipe?
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- What’s the best way to reheat leftover pastries?
- Can I add raisins or nuts to the filling?
- How do I ensure the edges seal properly?
- Can I prepare these pastries in advance?
- What other fruits can I use as a filling?
- How do I avoid overcooking the custard?