Name: Puff Pastry Apple Tarts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; Raw sugar, for sprinkling; 2 large apples, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons apricot jam + pinch of water; Vanilla ice cream, for serving; Caramel sauce, for serving; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Ingredients

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed

2 large apples, thinly sliced

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter, softened

Raw sugar, for sprinkling

2 tablespoons apricot jam + pinch of water (optional)

Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

Caramel sauce (optional, for serving)

Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut each into four squares. Arrange four squares on each prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Using a sharp knife, gently score the edges of each pastry square about 1/2 inch from the edge, making a smaller square inside. Be careful not to cut all the way through so the edges can puff properly.

Step 4: Spread a small amount of softened butter over the surface of each pastry square.

Step 5: Mix the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar together, then sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the mixture evenly over each pastry square.

Step 6: Arrange thin apple slices on top of the cinnamon-sugar layer, covering each square evenly.

Step 7: If desired, sprinkle a little raw sugar over the apples for extra crunch and sweetness.

Step 8: Bake the tarts for 18-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.

Step 9: For a shiny glaze, warm the apricot jam with a pinch of water in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Brush the warm glaze over the baked apples and pastry.

Step 10: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, or simply dust with powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness and texture.

To add a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the apples before baking.

If you prefer a less sweet tart, reduce the sugar or omit the raw sugar topping.

Experiment with different fruit like pears or peaches for a variation on the classic recipe.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just be sure to thaw it completely according to package instructions before using.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Scoring the edges helps the pastry puff properly, and spreading butter creates a moisture barrier. Also, baking the tarts immediately after assembling ensures crispiness. Avoid overly wet fruit or draining excess juice if using very juicy apples.