Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple rose puffs are the kind of dessert that looks like it came straight from a bakery window, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. Using store-bought puff pastry and a few basic ingredients, you can create a showstopping treat that’s flaky, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet. Plus, they make a great conversation starter and are perfect for gifting or entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Red apples (such as Pink Lady or Gala)
- Puff pastry sheets
- Lemon juice
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Apricot jam or honey
- Water
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Cut the apples in half, core them, and slice thinly (about 1/8 inch thick).
- In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice and microwave with a little water for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable.
- Roll out the puff pastry slightly and cut into 6 even strips.
- Spread a thin layer of apricot jam or honey along each pastry strip.
- Lay softened apple slices along the top edge of the strip, overlapping slightly with the rounded edge sticking out.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
- Fold the bottom half of the pastry up over the apple slices.
- Carefully roll the strip from one end to the other to form a rose shape.
- Place each rolled puff into the muffin tin.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and cooked through.
- Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 6 apple rose puffs.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
- Apple-pear mix: Use a combination of thinly sliced apples and pears for a sweet blend of flavors.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with cinnamon for a warm, aromatic finish.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for extra indulgence.
- Nutty addition: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or almonds inside before rolling for crunch.
- Berry twist: Add a smear of raspberry or strawberry jam for a fruity variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store apple rose puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes to crisp up the pastry.
Freezing is not recommended as the apples may become watery when thawed.
FAQs
Do I need to peel the apples?
No, leaving the peel on adds color and structure to the roses. Just make sure the slices are thin and softened.
Can I use green apples?
You can, but red apples are preferred for the visual effect and their natural sweetness.
What type of puff pastry should I use?
Use store-bought puff pastry sheets that are thawed but still cold for easy handling and best puff.
How do I keep the apples from breaking?
Microwaving or lightly simmering the apple slices softens them, making them flexible enough to roll without cracking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them up to the point of baking and refrigerate for a few hours before baking fresh.
What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
You can bake them on a parchment-lined baking tray with pastry rings or spaced far enough to hold their shape.
Can I add cheese to the filling?
For a savory-sweet twist, add a thin smear of cream cheese or mascarpone before layering the apples.
Can I use phyllo dough instead?
Phyllo is too delicate for this style and won’t hold the rose shape well. Stick with puff pastry for best results.
Why is my pastry soggy?
Make sure to bake long enough until golden and crisp. If apples are too wet, pat them dry after softening.
Can I use other fruits?
Yes, thinly sliced pears, peaches, or even mangoes can work, but apples hold their shape best when baked.
Conclusion
Apple rose puffs are the perfect blend of beauty and flavor. With their delicate floral shape, crispy layers, and soft, cinnamon-kissed apples, they offer a bakery-quality experience right from your kitchen. Whether served at brunch, dessert, or an afternoon gathering, these elegant pastries are sure to impress and delight.
Print
Apple Rose Puffs
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 apple rose puffs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Rose Puffs are elegant pastries made with thinly sliced apples rolled in puff pastry to resemble blooming roses. Lightly sweetened with cinnamon and finished with a glossy jam glaze, they are as beautiful as they are delicious—perfect for tea time, special occasions, or a showstopping dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 red apples (such as Pink Lady or Gala)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey
- 2 tbsp water
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Halve, core, and thinly slice apples (about 1/8-inch thick). Toss slices with lemon juice and microwave with water for 2–3 minutes until pliable.
- Roll puff pastry slightly and cut into 6 strips.
- Spread a thin layer of apricot jam or honey over each strip.
- Arrange apple slices along the top edge of each strip, overlapping slightly with peel edges sticking out.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
- Fold the bottom half of pastry over the apples.
- Roll each strip tightly to form a rose shape and place into muffin tin wells.
- Bake 35–40 minutes until pastry is golden and crisp.
- Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
- Leave apple skins on for vibrant color and structure.
- Ensure apples are softened so they roll easily without cracking.
- Bake until golden to avoid soggy pastry.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
