If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Apple Roses Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Imagine delicate, flaky puff pastry wrapped around tender, cinnamon-kissed apple slices that curl up like blooming roses. It’s a clever yet simple way to transform classic apple flavors into an elegant treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or elevating a quiet afternoon tea. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe combines straightforward steps with a stunning result that’s sure to warm hearts and delight taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Roses Recipe calls for ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a vital role: the puff pastry provides that irresistible flaky texture, the apples add a sweet and tart freshness, and the cinnamon sugar infusion gives a warm, cozy flavor that makes these roses so unique.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens and balances the tartness of the apples.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a warm spice note that perfectly complements the fruit.
- Red apples (2 medium or 3 small): The star ingredient, thinly sliced for that delicate rose effect.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Prevents apple slices from browning and adds a hint of brightness.
- Puff pastry (1 lb or 2 sheets, thawed): Creates the buttery, flaky base that holds everything together.
- All-purpose flour (for dusting): Keeps the pastry from sticking while you roll it out.
- Unsalted butter (4 Tbsp, melted): Brushed on to add richness and help the sugar and cinnamon stick.
- Apricot preserves or apple jelly (3 Tbsp): Gives a glossy finish and sweet fruit flavor glaze.
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting): A pretty finishing touch that adds a delicate sweetness.
How to Make Apple Roses Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Mixing
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, positioning a rack in the center to ensure even baking. Meanwhile, prepare a 12-count muffin tin by buttering or spraying it generously. Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside; this will be the essential spice-sugar blend that gives the roses their signature flavor.
Step 2: Slice and Soften the Apples
Halve your apples and carefully remove the cores. Slice each apple half very thinly, about 1/16-inch thick, with the slices running parallel to the base. To prevent the slices from breaking when formed into roses, place them into a bowl of water with fresh lemon juice and microwave for 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and pliable, but not mushy. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry Strips
On a floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to about 1/8-inch thickness, roughly 14 by 10 inches. Cut this into six even strips, each approximately 2 inches wide by 10 inches long. These strips will act as the foundation for your apple roses.
Step 4: Assemble the Roses
Working with one strip at a time, brush melted butter along the center, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it. Arrange 6 to 7 apple slices along the top half of the strip, peel side up, overlapping the slices lightly so they resemble rose petals curling delicately. Brush apricot preserves or apple jelly over the apple slices to add shine and sweetness.
Step 5: Roll and Shape
Fold the bottom half of the pastry strip up over the base of the apple slices. Starting from one end, roll the strip gently into a rose shape, capturing those beautiful apple petals as you go. Place the rolled rose directly into the prepared muffin tin. Repeat this process for all remaining strips to create a dozen charming apple roses.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops of the roses with more melted butter and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar over them. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp. If the apples start to brown too quickly, cover the tray loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
How to Serve Apple Roses Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. A small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices beautifully, making each bite a little slice of heaven.
Side Dishes
These apple roses are wonderfully versatile. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad for a brunch setting, or pair them with a cup of hearty black tea or spiced chai for an irresistible afternoon treat. They also make a charming accompaniment to a cheese platter with sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging your apple roses on a rustic wooden board or a delicate china plate to highlight their floral beauty. You might even place each rose in individual paper cupcake liners for easy serving at parties or add edible gold leaf for a touch of luxury when entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover apple roses in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispness, it’s best to eat them within this timeframe. If storing longer, refrigeration is an option but might soften the puff pastry slightly.
Freezing
Apple roses freeze beautifully. After cooling completely, wrap each rose tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth and flakiness, reheat apple roses in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy, and you want to retain that tender, flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Apple Roses Recipe?
Absolutely! While red apples are recommended for their color and sweetness, tart varieties like Granny Smith add a nice balance. Just be sure to slice them thin and soften them as instructed to make rolling easier.
Is it necessary to microwave the apple slices?
Microwaving softens the apple slices making them pliable enough to bend without breaking during rolling. If you prefer, you can gently simmer the slices in lemon water on the stove as an alternative.
Can I make Apple Roses Recipe vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based puff pastry and substitute melted vegan butter or coconut oil. Also, check that your apricot preserves are free from animal products to keep the recipe fully vegan.
Why do I need to brush apricot preserves on the apples?
The apricot preserves add a lovely sweet glaze that keeps the apples moist during baking and gives the roses a beautiful, shiny finish that enhances their visual appeal.
How do I prevent my apples from browning too much in the oven?
If your apples start to brown before the pastry is fully baked, cover the entire tray loosely with foil in the last 10 minutes of baking. This shields them from direct heat and keeps them looking fresh and lovely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making your own Apple Roses Recipe — from the irresistible scents filling your kitchen to the joy of presenting these elegant treats to friends and family. With simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that feels special and tastes incredible. Go ahead, give it a try and watch your dessert table blossom with these beautiful apple roses!
Print
Apple Roses Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This elegant Apple Roses recipe features thinly sliced red apples arranged in delicate rose shapes using buttery puff pastry. The apples are softened with lemon juice and baked with cinnamon sugar and apricot preserves for a warm, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. These beautiful pastries are crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a stunning treat to serve warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 2 medium or 3 small red apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
Sugar and Spice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pastry
- 1 lb or 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 Tbsp apricot preserves or apple jelly
Finishing
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375˚F and position a rack in the center. Butter or spray a 12-count muffin tin to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon and set aside.
- Slice Apples: Cut the apples in half and remove the cores. Lay each half flat and slice very thinly (about 1/16-inch thick) parallel to the base. Place the slices in a bowl, add just enough water to cover, and squeeze the lemon juice over to prevent browning. Microwave for 3-4 minutes until softened and flexible but not mushy. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
- Prepare Pastry Strips: On a floured surface, unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry and roll to about 1/8-inch thickness into a roughly 14” by 10” rectangle. Cut the pastry into six even strips approximately 2 inches wide and 10 inches long using a pizza cutter or knife.
- Fill: Working with one strip at a time, brush melted butter along the center of the pastry strip, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Arrange 6-7 apple slices along the top half of each strip with the peel side facing up, overlapping slightly and allowing edges to extend slightly above the pastry. Brush apricot preserves over the apples to add sweetness and help them stick together.
- Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom half of the pastry strip over the bottom of the apple slices, then carefully roll the strip from one end to form a rose shape. Place each rose gently into one cup of the prepared muffin tin. Repeat the process for all remaining strips.
- Finish and Bake: Brush the tops of the pastry roses with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and cooked through. If the apples are browning too quickly, tent the tin with foil for the last 10 minutes. Allow the roses to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure apple slices are as thin as possible to allow easy rolling and a delicate appearance.
- Use red apples for their color and sweetness; Granny Smith or Gala also work but adjust sweetness accordingly.
- Thoroughly dry the apple slices after microwaving to prevent soggy pastry.
- Chilling the pastry before cutting can make it easier to handle if very soft.
- You can substitute store-bought apple jelly if apricot preserves are unavailable.
- These pastries are best enjoyed the day they are made but can be reheated gently in a low oven.
