Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 50 grams of sugar, and 80 milliliters of vegetable oil until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add 8 grams of baking powder and 300-320 grams of flour into the wet mixture. Start with 300 grams of flour and add more if needed to achieve a soft, pliable dough that isn’t too sticky.
Knead the Dough:
Knead the dough gently for a few minutes until it is smooth. It should be easy to handle without sticking to your hands. Cover the dough with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
Cook the Apples:
Peel and dice 2 apples into small pieces. In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and 2 tablespoons of sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften slightly.
Add the Jam:
Once the apples are softened, stir in 2 tablespoons of apricot jam. Mix well to coat the apples and allow the flavors to meld together. Remove the filling from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) thickness. Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on the desired shape of your pastries.
Fill the Pastries:
Place a spoonful of the apple filling onto each piece of dough. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to create a decorative edge and ensure that the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
Brush with Egg White:
Beat 1 egg white until frothy and use a brush to apply it over the top of each pastry. This will help the pastries to achieve a nice, golden brown color when baked.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
Bake the Pastries:
Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
Mix the Ingredients:
In a small bowl, mix together 80 grams of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of apricot jam until smooth. The glaze should be slightly thick but pourable.
Glaze the Pastries:
Once the pastries are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the apricot glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are estimated based on standard ingredient measurements.
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Sugar: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 100 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different types of apples for the filling?
Yes, feel free to use any apples you prefer. Tart apples like Granny Smith will give the filling a tangy flavor, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will make it sweeter.
2. What can I substitute for apricot jam?
If you don’t have apricot jam, you can use other fruit jams like peach, apple, or even raspberry jam. Each will lend a different but delicious flavor to the pastries.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
4. How do I know when the pastries are done baking?
The pastries should be golden brown on the top and bottom, and the dough should be cooked through. If you notice they are browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly.
Tips for Making the Best Apple-Filled Pastries
Don’t Overfill the Pastries:
Adding too much filling can cause the pastries to burst open during baking. Use just enough to fill the center without overstuffing.
Chill the Dough:
If the dough becomes too soft while you are working with it, place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm it up. This will make it easier to handle.
Use Cold Butter for the Filling:
Adding cold butter to the pan when cooking the apples helps to prevent the butter from burning and gives a richer flavor to the filling.
Let the Pastries Cool Slightly Before Glazing:
Applying the glaze while the pastries are too hot can cause it to melt and run off. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before adding the glaze.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration:
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Freezing:
These pastries can be frozen either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pastries and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, allow the pastries to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the pastries in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Conclusion
These Apple-Filled Pastries with Apricot Glaze are a delightful treat for any occasion. Their light, flaky dough, combined with the warm, sweet, and slightly tangy apple filling, makes them irresistible. The apricot glaze adds a perfect finishing touch, providing a glossy appearance and extra sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or as a mid-day snack, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Simple to make yet elegant in presentation, this recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the beauty of homemade baking. Try them out, and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of apples and apricot in every bite!
