Apple Puff Pastry Braid Recipe
Introduction
This Apple Puff Pastry Braid is a simple yet impressive dessert that combines flaky puff pastry with warm, spiced apple filling. It’s perfect for a quick treat or a festive gathering, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed per directions on the box
- 8 oz apple pie filling
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg
- Splash of water
- 2 teaspoons coarse sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 2: Spread the apple pie filling down the center of the pastry. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the filling.
- Step 3: Make 8 diagonal cuts on each side of the filling. Trim the top and bottom flaps of the pastry, leaving the center intact.
- Step 4: Fold the top of the pastry over the filling. Alternate folding the pastry strips over each other to create a braid, then fold the bottom piece over the filling to finish the braid.
- Step 5: Whisk the egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush it evenly over the pastry and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Step 6: Bake for 18-20 minutes until the pastry is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh apples cooked down with sugar and cinnamon for a homemade filling variation.
- Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans inside the filling for extra texture.
- For a vegan option, substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk or melted coconut oil.
- Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon to deepen the spice flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover apple puff pastry braid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry directly from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw puff pastry according to package instructions before using to ensure it unfolds smoothly and bakes evenly.
Can I make this braid ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the braid and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
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Apple Puff Pastry Braid Recipe
- Total Time: 28-30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Apple Puff Pastry Braid is a delightful and visually appealing dessert featuring flaky puff pastry filled with sweet apple pie filling and a hint of cinnamon. The pastry is braided for an elegant presentation, brushed with egg wash for a golden finish, and topped with coarse sugar for a perfect crunchy texture. It’s a quick and easy recipe ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Braid Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed per directions on the box
- 8 oz apple pie filling
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg
- Splash of water
- 2 teaspoons coarse sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet carefully onto the prepared baking sheet, laying it flat.
- Add filling: Spread the apple pie filling evenly down the center of the puff pastry sheet, then sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the filling for added flavor.
- Cut the pastry: Make 8 diagonal cuts on each side of the filling part, creating strips. Trim the top and bottom flaps so only the center remains intact for filling.
- Braid the pastry: Fold the top flap over the filling first, then alternate folding the diagonal pastry strips over the filling from each side to create a braided effect. Finally, fold the bottom flap over to close the braid completely.
- Apply egg wash and sugar: Whisk the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush it generously over the braided pastry to give it a golden, shiny finish once baked. Sprinkle the top with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake the braid: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the braid from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Slice into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is properly thawed but still cold for easier handling.
- You can use homemade or store-bought apple pie filling depending on your time and preference.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans inside the filling for extra crunch.
- If you don’t have coarse sugar, granulated sugar can be used but won’t provide the same texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple puff pastry braid, apple dessert, puff pastry recipe, easy dessert, baked dessert, cinnamon apple braid
