Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls: A Cozy Fall Dessert

Apple pie is a beloved classic dessert, but sometimes you crave something a bit different. Enter the Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls—a modern twist on the classic apple pie, combining the crispy, buttery layers of puff pastry with a warm, spiced apple filling. These rolls are incredibly easy to make, and their irresistible golden-brown finish is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re preparing for a fall gathering or simply looking to enjoy a cozy, comforting treat at home, this recipe is perfect. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these delicious Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls.

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

What is Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls?

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls are an innovative take on traditional apple pie. The concept is simple yet effective: take the flavors of apple pie—warm, cinnamon-spiced apples—and encase them in light, flaky puff pastry. The result is a golden, sweet pastry with soft, tender apples inside. These rolls have a slightly more elegant feel than a regular pie, making them perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.

Origin of Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

The idea of rolling fruit fillings into puff pastry isn’t new, but the specific fusion of apple pie with puff pastry creates a balance of tradition and modernity. While the origins of puff pastry rolls can be traced back to French pastry techniques, using puff pastry for an apple pie filling is an American adaptation, combining the rich flavors of the classic apple pie with the refined texture of puff pastry. This recipe has become particularly popular in fall, when apples are in season, and the spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla evoke feelings of warmth and comfort.

Ingredients for Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare the filling and puff pastry rolls. This recipe serves about 6-8 rolls, perfect for sharing or enjoying alone!

For the Apple Filling:

  • 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Puff Pastry Rolls:

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

Let’s break down the preparation process for these delightful Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls.

 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced apples and stir occasionally for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to begin softening.
  3. Stir in ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let this cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and have absorbed the spices.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir this into the apple mixture. This will thicken the filling and help it bind together.
  5. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool completely before using.

 2: Assemble the Puff Pastry Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out your puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface, ensuring it’s flat and smooth.
  3. Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the pastry to create a slightly sweetened crust.
  4. Evenly spread the cooled apple mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.
  5. Carefully roll the pastry from the bottom up, creating a tight log.
  6. Slice the rolled pastry into 2-inch pieces, and place the slices cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash to ensure a golden finish as they bake.
  8. Sprinkle granulated sugar and chopped pecans or walnuts (if using) over the tops for added texture and flavor.

 3: Bake & Serve

  1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
  2. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is perfect as-is, you can always tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

  • Spices: For extra warmth, try adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the filling for an added layer of flavor.
  • Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, try adding almonds or hazelnuts for a different texture.
  • Glaze: For an extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce or a cream cheese glaze over the rolls after baking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are ideal for baking because they hold their shape and offer a tart-sweet flavor, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Golden Delicious. Choose apples that have a good balance of sweetness and tartness for the best results.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and cook them as instructed.

Can I make the puff pastry rolls gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Make sure to double-check the ingredients in your puff pastry to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, flaky pastry and a rich, spiced apple filling. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering, for a special occasion, or simply as an indulgent snack, these rolls will always be a hit. The versatility of this recipe also allows you to experiment with different variations to suit your tastes. From the choice of apple variety to the addition of nuts and spices, there’s no limit to how you can make these rolls your own. Try them today and experience a cozy, comforting dessert that’s sure to warm your heart.

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Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls: A Cozy Fall Dessert


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls are an innovative take on traditional apple pie. The concept is simple yet effective: take the flavors of apple pie—warm, cinnamon-spiced apples—and encase them in light, flaky puff pastry. The result is a golden, sweet pastry with soft, tender apples inside. These rolls have a slightly more elegant feel than a regular pie, making them perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.


Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

  • 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp nutmeg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Puff Pastry Rolls:

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

  2. Add the sliced apples and stir occasionally for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to begin softening.

  3. Stir in ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let this cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and have absorbed the spices.

  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir this into the apple mixture. This will thicken the filling and help it bind together.

  5. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Assemble the Puff Pastry Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Roll out your puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface, ensuring it’s flat and smooth.

  3. Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the pastry to create a slightly sweetened crust.

  4. Evenly spread the cooled apple mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides.

  5. Carefully roll the pastry from the bottom up, creating a tight log.

  6. Slice the rolled pastry into 2-inch pieces, and place the slices cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.

  7. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash to ensure a golden finish as they bake.

  8. Sprinkle granulated sugar and chopped pecans or walnuts (if using) over the tops for added texture and flavor.

Step 3: Bake & Serve

  1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.

  2. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

These puff pastry rolls are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a crisp texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Apple Pie Puff Pastry Rolls

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