Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is like preparing for a family reunion; every piece has its place and purpose. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Turbinado sugar for sprinkling
If you’re out of brown sugar, feel free to substitute with white sugar and a hint of molasses for depth. For a dairy-free version, you can swap the butter with a vegan margarine.
Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting these delightful pastries, just like I learned in my family’s kitchen.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In another bowl, toss the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let the filling sit while you roll out the dough.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the apple mixture into the center of each circle. Fold in half and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm!
Patience is key here—let them cool just enough to avoid burning your tongue, something I learned the hard way as an eager child in my abuela’s kitchen!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International