Description
This easy apple puff pastry braid is a budget-friendly dessert featuring tender apples wrapped in flaky, golden pastry. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights, gatherings, or holiday brunches.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Gala)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 8 oz)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir and cook for 4-5 minutes until apples are softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool. Stir in nuts or raisins if using.
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold thawed puff pastry and gently roll out to a 10×12-inch rectangle. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon cooled apple mixture down the center of the pastry, leaving 2-3 inches clear on each side.
- Using a sharp knife, make 1-inch diagonal cuts along both sides of the pastry, starting from the filling outward. Fold strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided look.
- Brush the top of the braid with beaten egg. Sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Let the apple filling cool before assembling to prevent soggy pastry. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, use gluten-free puff pastry and vegan butter, and brush with non-dairy milk instead of egg. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks. Serve warm for best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of braid)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 160
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
Keywords: apple dessert, puff pastry braid, easy dessert, budget-friendly, fall baking, brunch, holiday dessert, vegetarian