Apple Cinnamon Pastries with Orange-Raspberry Tea

This warm and delightful recipe combines the comfort of baked apple pastries with the refreshing flavor of homemade orange-raspberry tea. The pastries are filled with juicy apples, butter, cinnamon, and sugar, creating a delicious and simple dessert or snack. Paired with a fragrant tea, this recipe is perfect for cozy afternoons or as a treat to share with family and friends.

Preparation Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Chilling time for tea: 5 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Pastries:

  • Dough: 500 g (1 lb)
  • Apples: 3 (medium, peeled and sliced)
  • Butter: 5 g (½ tablespoon)
  • Sugar: 30 g (2 ½ tablespoons)
  • Cinnamon: 5 g (1 teaspoon)
  • Egg: 1
  • Extra sugar for sprinkling

For the Tea:

  • Orange: 1 (sliced)
  • Raspberries: 50 g (⅓ cup)
  • Cinnamon stick: 1
  • Sugar: 30 g (2 ½ tablespoons)
  • Water: 500 ml (2 cups)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the apple filling:
    • Peel and slice the apples.
    • In a small pan, melt the butter and add the apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon.
    • Cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the apples are softened.
  2. Assemble the pastries:
    • Roll out the dough on a floured surface.
    • Place the cooked apple filling in the center of the dough squares.
    • Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges.
  3. Egg wash and sprinkle:
    • Beat the egg and brush it over the pastries.
    • Sprinkle some sugar on top for a crispy finish.
  4. Bake:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Place the pastries on a baking tray and bake for 30 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Make the tea:
    • In a pot, combine orange slices, raspberries, cinnamon stick, sugar, and water.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
    • Strain and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve the apple pastries warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Enjoy the tea with a slice of orange for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

  • Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastries for a decorative touch.
  • For a more indulgent version, add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the baked pastries.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, making these pastries a healthier treat.
  • Raspberries in the tea are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Contains dairy (butter), eggs, and gluten (dough).

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately 1 pastry and 1 cup of tea):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 25 g

Storage Tips:

  • Pastries: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Tea: Refrigerate leftover tea for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  1. Cozy and comforting: Perfect for cold days or as a warming treat.
  2. Simple yet flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and apples is timeless.
  3. Homemade tea pairing: A refreshing twist with orange and raspberry flavors.
  4. Easy to make: Requires minimal ingredients and effort for a delicious result.

Conclusion:

This recipe offers a perfect balance between the warm, comforting flavor of baked apple pastries and the zesty freshness of orange-raspberry tea. The crisp dough, tender apples, and aromatic cinnamon create an irresistible combination that is both indulgent and easy to prepare. Paired with the soothing homemade tea, it’s a delightful treat you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you’re making this for guests or enjoying it solo, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use puff pastry instead of regular dough?
    Yes, puff pastry will give a flakier texture.
  2. Can I substitute apples with another fruit?
    Pears or peaches would work great in this recipe.
  3. Is it okay to skip the egg wash?
    You can skip it, but the pastries will be less golden.
  4. Can I use frozen raspberries for the tea?
    Yes, frozen raspberries work just as well.
  5. Can I use a sweetener instead of sugar in the tea?
    Yes, you can substitute honey or any sweetener of choice.
  6. What other spices can I add to the apple filling?
    Nutmeg or cloves would add a nice warmth to the flavor.
  7. Can I freeze the pastries?
    Yes, freeze before baking, then bake straight from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
  8. Can I make the tea without sugar?
    Yes, the natural sweetness of the fruit may be enough for some.
  9. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
    Make sure the apple filling is not too watery by cooking it until most of the moisture evaporates.
  10. Can I make the pastries in advance?
    Yes, prepare and refrigerate them unbaked, then bake fresh when ready to serve.