Golden, buttery, and filled with sweet spiced apple slices, Simple Apple Puff Pastry is the kind of treat that feels both effortless and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just satisfy a cozy craving, this quick apple dessert delivers the flavors of apple pie in a fraction of the time.

Each bite combines flaky puff pastry with warm cinnamon apples, making it perfect for autumn afternoons, holiday brunches, or last-minute sweet fixes. And since it only takes a handful of ingredients, it’s an ideal beginner-friendly bake.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Frozen puff pastry sheets from your local grocery store work perfectly for this recipe. Look for all-butter varieties if possible—they offer the richest flavor. Just make sure to fully thaw the pastry before unfolding to avoid cracks.

Ingredients for the Simple Apple Puff Pastry

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 large apple, thinly sliced (like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

How To Make the Simple Apple Puff Pastry

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to smooth creases. Cut into rectangles or leave whole for a tart-style pastry. Place on the lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Mix the Apple Filling

In a bowl, toss the thin apple slices with brown sugar and cinnamon until well coated.

Step 4: Arrange the Apples

Layer the spiced apple slices over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Brush edges with egg wash.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden, and apples are tender.

Step 6: Serve

Brush with melted butter after baking. Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store This Puff Pastry Treat

Serve your Simple Apple Puff Pastry with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to regain its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How thin should I slice the apples?

Aim for 1/8 inch thick. This ensures they soften properly while baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pastries a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What apple varieties work best?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala are ideal—sweet and firm. Granny Smith is great if you like tart contrast.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg or allspice adds cozy depth to the flavor.

Do I have to use an egg wash?

No, but it gives the pastry a beautiful golden finish. Milk or cream can be used as a substitute.

Can I freeze them after baking?

They’re best fresh, but you can freeze and reheat in the oven. Just know the texture may soften slightly.

Want More Puff Pastry Ideas?

If this Simple Apple Puff Pastry hit the sweet spot, don’t miss these other flaky favorites:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you drizzle with caramel? Add a dash of cardamom? I love hearing your twists and tips!

Want more everyday treats and seasonal recipes? Follow me on Pinterest @NinaDishes for your daily dose of delicious!

Simple Apple Puff Pastry

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Golden, flaky puff pastry meets spiced apple slices in this easy-to-make dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can bake up a treat that feels like a shortcut to homemade apple pie—perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

1 large apple, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

1 egg, beaten

Powdered sugar, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to smooth creases. Cut into rectangles or leave whole. Place on the lined baking sheet.

3. Toss the thin apple slices with brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.

4. Arrange apple slices over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Brush edges with beaten egg.

5. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden and puffed.

6. Brush with melted butter after baking. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temp.

Notes

Use all-butter puff pastry for richer flavor.

Slice apples thin (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even baking.

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pastry
Calories: 280
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 115mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: puff pastry apple dessert