This Pineapple Puff Pastry is a perfect combination of flaky puff pastry and sweet pineapple filling, with a touch of cinnamon to add a warm, comforting flavor. These pastries are simple to make yet look and taste sophisticated, making them ideal for a dessert, snack, or special occasion. Paired with a warm spiced tea featuring ginger and apple, they offer a delightful and cozy treat for any time of day. The addition of pomegranate seeds on top provides a burst of color and tangy flavor, making these pastries visually appealing as well as delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8 pastries
Ingredients
For the Pineapple Puff Pastry:
- 500 g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 500 g canned pineapple, drained and chopped
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 egg (separate yolk and white)
- Pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Accompanying Tea:
- 2 teaspoons black loose-leaf tea
- A small piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- Sugar (to taste)
Directions
1. Prepare the Pineapple Filling:
- Drain the canned pineapple and chop it into small pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir well to evenly coat the pineapple with the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares or rectangles depending on your preferred pastry size.
3. Assemble the Pastries:
- Place a spoonful of the pineapple filling in the center of each puff pastry piece.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges together with a fork to seal them.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg yolk for a golden finish once baked.
4. Bake the Pastries:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the pastries on it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
5. Prepare the Tea:
- In a teapot or saucepan, combine black tea leaves, sliced ginger, apple slices, and sugar to taste.
- Add boiling water and let the tea steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain the tea before serving to remove the solid ingredients.
6. Serve:
- Once the pastries are baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish the pastries with pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve with the warm spiced tea for the perfect pairing.
Serving Suggestions
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the pastries with powdered sugar for a festive and elegant touch.
- Whipped Cream or Caramel Sauce: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair the pastries with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Chopped Nuts: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra texture and a nutty contrast.
- Tea or Coffee: Enjoy these pastries warm with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy snack.
Cooking Tips
- Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is cold before baking for maximum flakiness.
- Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple for a tangier flavor, but cook it slightly with sugar and cinnamon before filling for the best results.
- Egg White for Sealing: Brush the edges with egg white before sealing for a stronger, better seal.
- Savory Twist: For a savory version, skip the sugar and cinnamon and add cheese (like feta or mozzarella) to the pineapple filling.
- Sharp Knife: Always use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for clean, neat cuts.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps with collagen production, promoting healthy skin and tissues.
- Puff Pastry: Though puff pastry can be high in calories and fat, it provides a satisfying and indulgent texture when paired with lighter fillings like pineapple.
- Ginger: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion and relieve nausea.
- Apple: Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, helping to support heart health and digestion.
- Pomegranate Seeds: Pomegranate seeds are packed with antioxidants, helping to fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Storage
- Leftover Pastries: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the puff pastry’s crispness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pastries. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create these delicious pastries that taste like you’ve spent hours preparing them.
- Versatile: These pastries can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
- Delicious Pairing: The warm spiced tea complements the sweet pineapple-filled pastries perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying treat.
- Elegant Touch: The pomegranate seeds not only add color but also elevate the presentation, making these pastries perfect for special occasions.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just cook it slightly with sugar and cinnamon before using it to make it soft and easier to work with.
2. Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the pastries ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of tea?
You can substitute black tea with other types, such as green tea or herbal tea like chamomile, depending on your preference.
4. Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastries. Once frozen, you can bake them directly from the freezer.
5. How can I make these pastries more festive?
Add some edible gold leaf or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an even more festive and elegant presentation.
This Pineapple Puff Pastry paired with spiced tea is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this easy-to-make treat for any occasion!