When the chill of fall sets in or you’re simply craving a comforting treat, there’s nothing more satisfying than the aroma of apple cinnamon pastries baking in the oven. Paired with a steaming cup of orange-raspberry tea, this duo offers the perfect balance of warm, flaky indulgence and refreshing fruitiness. Whether you’re making these for an afternoon snack, dessert, or a small gathering, this recipe is both simple to follow and bound to impress. Let’s dive into the details to create this irresistible combination!
Ingredients
For the Pastries
- Dough: 500 g (1 lb), either store-bought or homemade (puff pastry or shortcrust works well)
- Apples: 3 medium-sized, peeled and sliced thinly
- Butter: 5 g (½ tablespoon)
- Sugar: 30 g (2 ½ tablespoons)
- Cinnamon: 5 g (1 teaspoon)
- Egg: 1, beaten, for brushing
- Extra sugar: For sprinkling on top
For the Tea
- Orange: 1, thinly sliced
- Raspberries: 50 g (⅓ cup), fresh or frozen
- Cinnamon Stick: 1
- Sugar: 30 g (2 ½ tablespoons)
- Water: 500 ml (2 cups)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel and Slice Apples: Start by peeling the apples and slicing them into thin, even pieces. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and a balanced texture in the filling.
- Cook the Filling: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
- Soften the Apples: Cook the apples for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should become tender but not overly soft, maintaining some texture. Once done, remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into even squares, approximately 4×4 inches in size.
- Add the Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the cooled apple filling into the center of each dough square, leaving space around the edges for sealing.
3. Shape and Seal the Pastries
- Fold the Dough: Fold each dough square diagonally to form a triangle, or fold opposite edges to create a rectangular pocket.
- Seal the Edges: Press the edges together firmly to seal the pastries. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added security and a decorative touch.
4. Add Finishing Touches
- Brush with Egg Wash: Beat the egg and use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of the pastries. This will give them a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Sprinkle Sugar: For an added crunch and sweetness, sprinkle a small amount of sugar over the egg-washed pastries.
5. Bake the Pastries
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Allow it to fully preheat before baking.
- Bake: Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they have space to expand. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
6. Make the Tea
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the orange slices, raspberries, cinnamon stick, sugar, and water.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Strain: After simmering, strain the tea into cups to remove the fruit and cinnamon stick. Serve hot, garnished with a fresh slice of orange for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- For the Pastries: Serve them warm, either plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- For the Tea: Enjoy it alongside the pastries for a perfectly balanced pairing. The fruity tea complements the warm, spiced pastries beautifully.
Helpful Tips
- Dough Tips: Puff pastry yields a light, flaky result, while shortcrust pastry gives a sturdier texture. Choose based on your preference.
- Preventing Leaks: Make sure to seal the edges of the pastries tightly to avoid the filling spilling out during baking.
- Adding Flair: Drizzle the pastries with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Customize the Tea: Add a few cloves or a slice of fresh ginger to the tea for extra warmth and spice.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pastries: Replace apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor. Add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture.
- Tea: Substitute raspberries with blackberries or strawberries. Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the pastries in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the pastries and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store baked pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.
3. Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, unbaked pastries can be frozen. Place them on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. What can I do with leftover filling?
Use the apple filling as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, apples support digestion and immunity.
- Raspberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, they offer health benefits like improved skin and heart health.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to regulate blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 pastry + 1 cup tea):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 25 g
Storage Tips
- Pastries: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze as described above.
- Tea: Refrigerate leftover tea for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Apple cinnamon pastries paired with orange-raspberry tea create a delightful experience for the senses. The warm, spiced filling in the pastries contrasts beautifully with the tangy, fruity tea, making this combination ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving guests or indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy. Try it today and savor the magic of homemade goodness!