Introduction

Baked Apple Roses with Puff Pastry are a stunning and delicious dessert that is surprisingly easy to make at home. These delicate pastries showcase thinly sliced apples shaped into beautiful rose petals, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry and lightly spiced. Perfect for special occasions or a charming treat.

The image shows six apple rose pastries arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Each pastry has a base layer of light beige dough formed into a round cup. Inside, thin, red apple slices with a mix of red skin and pale yellow flesh are curled in overlapping layers to look like rose petals. The apple slices are slightly shiny and dusted with more powdered sugar. The tray is surrounded by a white marbled surface, on which cinnamon sticks and a glass with a light yellow drink are placed in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 red apples (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady recommended)
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed according to package directions)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (to prevent browning)
3 tablespoons apricot preserves (or jam)
1 tablespoon water (for apricot mixture)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting, optional)
2 tablespoons water (for softening apple slices)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and core the apples, leaving the skin on. Cut them in half from top to bottom, then slice them paper-thin (about 1/16 inch thick). Place the slices in a bowl of water mixed with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: Drain the apple slices and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Microwave for approximately 3 minutes until the slices become soft and flexible.
Step 3: On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to smooth out any creases. Cut the pastry into 6 equal strips, each about 2 inches wide and 8-10 inches long.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the apricot preserves with 1 tablespoon of water. Microwave for 30 seconds until warm and easily spreadable. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
Step 5: Brush each strip of pastry with the apricot preserve mixture. Arrange the softened apple slices along the top half of each pastry strip, slightly overlapping them, with the skin side extending just beyond the pastry edge.
Step 6: Sprinkle the apple slices with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Fold the bottom half of the pastry up over the bottom of the apple slices to cover.
Step 7: Starting from one end, carefully roll up each strip to form a rose shape. The apple slices will naturally curve and create a realistic rose effect as you roll.
Step 8: Place each rolled rose in a greased muffin tin to help them maintain their shape during baking. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter.
Step 9: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. If the roses are browning too quickly, tent them with foil after 25 minutes of baking.
Step 10: Allow the apple roses to cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use thin, flexible apple slices to avoid breakage when rolling; microwaving softens them perfectly.
Try different jams like raspberry or strawberry for a unique flavor twist.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added warmth.
For extra shine, brush the baked roses with a bit of warmed apricot jam before serving.

Storage

Store leftover apple roses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh to keep the pastry crisp. To reheat, warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to revive the flakiness without drying out the apples.

How to Serve

The image shows four small rose-shaped tarts arranged on a white plate with a slightly raised edge and small round details. Each tart has two main layers: the base is a light golden-brown pastry crust with a soft texture and scalloped edges, and the top layer consists of thin, delicate apple slices baked into the shape of a rose, with the edges of the slices having a reddish-brown tint. A light dusting of powdered sugar covers the apple rose layers, adding a fine white powder texture. The white plate rests on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and elegant look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any firm apple varieties that hold their shape well when cooked, such as Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Avoid very soft or mealy apples, as they won’t create the desired texture or shape.

Do I have to use puff pastry or are there alternatives?

Puff pastry works best for its flaky layers and ability to hold shape. However, you could try using phyllo dough for a lighter texture, or even a buttery tart dough for a different twist, though the roses may be less airy.