If you’re looking for a simple, delicious pastry recipe that’s brimming with the cozy flavors of apple and cinnamon, this Easy Apple Cinnamon Pastry is just the treat. With a tender dough made from cottage cheese and a warm, spiced apple filling, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion—whether it’s a weekend breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet end to dinner. Unlike many pastries, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it marries simplicity with rich flavors. Here are some reasons why it’s a winner:
- Moist and Tender Dough: Using cottage cheese in the dough creates a tender, slightly tangy base that complements the sweet apple filling perfectly.
- Flavorful Apple Filling: Cooking the apples with butter, cinnamon, and a touch of cornstarch gives them a soft, slightly caramelized texture that’s rich in flavor.
- Quick and Easy: With no need for yeast or lengthy preparation times, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
- Versatile Serving Options: These pastries are fantastic as they are or paired with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
To make this cozy apple cinnamon pastry, here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 200g Cottage Cheese: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the dough, making it extra tender.
- 1 Egg: Acts as a binder to help hold the dough together.
- Pinch of Salt: Enhances the flavors in the dough.
- 2 tbsp Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the dough without overpowering the filling.
- 50ml Vegetable Oil: Helps keep the dough soft and tender.
- 10g Vanilla Sugar: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor that pairs well with the apple filling.
- 200g Flour: Provides structure to the dough.
- 1 tsp Baking Powder: Gives the dough a light lift, so it’s not too dense.
For the Filling:
- 500g Apples, diced: The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and texture.
- 1 tbsp Butter: Helps caramelize the apples slightly and adds richness to the filling.
- Cinnamon to taste: For that classic, warm spiced flavor.
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch: Thickens the filling, helping to hold it together inside the pastry.
For the Topping:
- 20g Butter: Used to brush over the baked pastry, adding flavor and moisture.
- 2 tbsp Sugar: Sweetens the topping and adds a bit of texture.
- Cinnamon to taste: Completes the pastry with a final touch of warm spice.
How To Make This Easy Apple Cinnamon Pastry
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, salt, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla sugar.
- Mix until all ingredients are smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add in the flour and baking powder, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. The dough should be easy to handle but not too dry.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples to the pan and sprinkle with cinnamon to taste.
- Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and stir until the apples are evenly coated.
- Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread the apple filling evenly over one side of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing down gently to seal the edges.
Step 4: Bake the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Transfer the folded dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the edges are crisp.
Step 5: Add the Topping
- Melt 20g of butter and brush it generously over the warm pastry.
- Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar and a dash of cinnamon for a sweet, spiced finish.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
To make sure your apple cinnamon pastry turns out perfectly, here are some extra tips:
- Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky to handle, add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.
- Apple Variety: For the best texture and flavor, choose a firm, slightly tart apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Filling Texture: Avoid overcooking the apple filling in the skillet, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Brush Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter for the topping—it enhances the flavor and adds moisture, especially if you plan to store the pastry for a day or two.
How to Serve This Pastry
This apple cinnamon pastry can be enjoyed in many ways:
- As-is: Enjoy a slice of this pastry warm from the oven for a quick snack or breakfast treat.
- With Ice Cream: For dessert, pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the warm cinnamon flavor perfectly.
- With Coffee or Tea: Serve a slice alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for an ideal afternoon pick-me-up.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter, creamier addition.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ideas to enhance the presentation and flavor of your apple cinnamon pastry:
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Caramel sauce takes this pastry to the next level, adding an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
- Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple, elegant look, sprinkle powdered sugar over the pastry before serving.
- Garnish with Fresh Apple Slices or Mint Leaves: Adding a few apple slices or a sprig of fresh mint gives a pop of color and freshness.
Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Conclusion
This Easy Apple Cinnamon Pastry recipe is the ultimate quick treat when you’re craving something sweet and comforting. With a tender cottage cheese dough and a warmly spiced apple filling, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pastry enthusiasts. Whether you’re serving it to guests or simply indulging yourself, this pastry is sure to be a hit every time. Enjoy!