### Apple Sauce Puff Pastry Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Bake
Are you looking for a comforting dessert that’s easy to make yet impresses your guests? Look no further than apple sauce puffs! This delightful recipe combines the sweet taste of apples with the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations, these puffs are sure to be a hit. Let's dive into the detailed steps to create this irresistible treat.
#### Ingredients
- 2 sheets of thawed puff pastry
- 1 cup apple sauce (unsweetened is best)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- A pinch of cinnamon
- Granulated sugar, for sprinkling
#### Equipment Needed
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
### Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Sauce Puffs
#### Preparation
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. **Prepare the Apple Sauce Mixture:**
- In a small bowl, mix together apple sauce and honey or maple syrup if using.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor.
#### Assembling the Puff Pastry
3. **Roll Out the Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer it onto your baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Apply Apple Sauce Mixture:**
- Spread the apple sauce mixture evenly over the rolled-out pastry sheet, leaving about 1 inch around the edges free for sealing.
5. **Repeat with Second Sheet:** Carefully place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the first one, ensuring it overlaps slightly to create a seal.
#### Baking and Finishing Touches
6. **Score the Pastry:**
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the pastry into desired shapes (ovals, diamonds, or any other design). You can also score lines across the top layer to allow for easier baking.
7. **Brush with Egg Wash:** Lightly brush the scored areas with beaten egg for a golden-brown finish and to enhance flavor. Alternatively, you can use milk or another liquid for a simpler wash.
8. **Sprinkle Sugar:**
- Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top of each puffed apple for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.
9. **Bake:** Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the pastry is puffed up.
#### Tips and Variations
- **Herbs:** For a twist, add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the apple sauce mixture.
- **Nutty Flavour:** Mix in some crushed walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- **Sweetness Adjustment:** Use different types of honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
Enjoy these delightful apple sauce puffs warm straight from the oven, served as a dessert or snack. They’re perfect for sharing and are sure to become a family favorite!