Apple Roses Recipe

Create beautiful apple roses with this easy puff pastry recipe featuring fresh apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and jam. Perfect for special occasions, brunch, or holiday desserts, these homemade apple pastries are baked in a muffin pan for a simple yet stunning presentation. Find out how to make elegant apple roses with minimal ingredients for a bakery-quality result right from your kitchen. Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Mother’s Day, or any time you need a quick, impressive dessert.

Ingredients

• 3 apples (any variety, preferably with red skin)
• 1 roll puff pastry
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons jam (apricot recommended, but any kind works)

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Thaw the puff pastry completely in the refrigerator.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice with 1 cup of cold water.
3. In a small bowl, mix the light brown sugar and cinnamon.
4. Lightly grease a muffin pan with non-stick spray.

Slice the Apples

1. Core the apples and slice them in half lengthwise.
2. Place the flat side down and slice very thinly from bottom to top. A mandolin slicer works well for even slices.
3. Place the slices into the lemon water to prevent browning.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Roll it out gently to stretch it about an inch larger in each direction.
3. Cut the pastry into 6 even strips and arrange them spaced apart.

Assemble the Roses

1. Mix the jam with a splash of hot water to thin it out.
2. Brush a thin layer of jam over each pastry strip.
3. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Microwave the apple slices for about 2 minutes to soften, then drain any excess water.
5. Place apple slices along the top edge of a pastry strip, overlapping them slightly.
6. Fold the bottom of the strip up over the bottom of the apples.
7. Brush the folded edge with a little more jam.
8. Gently roll the strip from one end to the other to form a rose shape.
9. Place each rose into a cavity of the muffin pan.

Bake

1. Chill the prepared roses in the refrigerator while you preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake for 40–45 minutes on the middle rack until the pastry is golden brown.
   • If the apple edges brown too quickly, loosely cover them with foil.
3. Remove from the oven and immediately run a knife around each rose if needed to loosen.
4. Transfer to a cooling rack to prevent sogginess.

Optional Glaze

• Warm a little extra jam and brush it over the tops for a shiny finish.

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Tips

• Slice apples as thin as possible for easy rolling and a delicate look.
• Microwave apples just until flexible—this prevents cracking while rolling.
• Keep puff pastry cold whenever possible to ensure a flaky texture.
• Line the muffin pan with strips of parchment if you are worried about sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap apricot jam for raspberry, peach, or apple jelly for different flavors.
• Use a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm spice twist.
• Substitute the jam with a light egg wash if you prefer a less sweet option.
• Add a thin layer of cream cheese or almond paste under the apples for a richer version.

FAQs

Can I make apple roses ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat lightly before serving if desired.

What kind of apples are best?
Red-skinned apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work beautifully because their color creates a lovely rose effect.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?
Drain the apples thoroughly after microwaving, and cool the pastries on a wire rack immediately after baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a simple dessert.
• Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-catching and perfect for impressing guests.
• Simple ingredients but a stunning presentation.
• Customizable with your favorite jams and spices.
• Great for parties, brunches, holidays, or as a special homemade gift.