Braided Apple Puff Pastry (Print-Friendly Version)

Flaky puff pastry braided around warm cinnamon-spiced apples, finished with a sweet vanilla drizzle for an elegant, comforting treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Apple Filling

01 - 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
06 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
07 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

→ Pastry

08 - 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 10x15 inches)
09 - 1 large egg, beaten

→ Icing (Optional)

10 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
11 - 1–2 tablespoons milk
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Steps:

01 - In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
02 - Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir into the apple mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.
03 - Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
04 - Unroll the puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly score the pastry into thirds lengthwise, without cutting through.
05 - On the outer thirds, cut 1-inch strips at a slight diagonal, leaving the center intact for the filling.
06 - Spoon the cooled apple mixture down the center of the pastry.
07 - Fold the top and bottom ends over the filling. Starting at one end, fold strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided look.
08 - Lightly brush the pastry with beaten egg to give it a golden, shiny finish.
09 - Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
10 - Allow to cool for 10 minutes before adding icing (if using).
11 - In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
12 - Use a spoon to drizzle the icing over the cooled pastry in a zig-zag pattern.
13 - Slice the braided pastry into sections and serve warm or at room temperature.

# Notes & Tips:

01 - You can prepare the apple filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
02 - Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispier texture.
03 - Try adding raisins, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries to the apple filling for extra flavor.

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