Oriana’s Thoughts On The Recipe
You know that feeling when the weather starts to cool down, and all you want is something warm and comforting? That’s when I head to the kitchen to whip up these Apple and Dulce de Leche Puffs! They’re so buttery and flaky, yet the sweetness of the dulce de leche paired with the slight tartness of the apples makes them irresistible. I honestly think this combo is magic! What I love the most is how simple they are to make. It’s one of those recipes that feels super impressive, but even if you’re starting in the kitchen, you’ll totally nail it. Plus, they bake up with those beautiful, flaky layers that everyone goes crazy for. You’ll look like a pro! They’re versatile, too! Whether you’re serving them for dessert after a cozy dinner or enjoying them as a sweet snack with coffee, these puffs fit the bill. I promise that once you try them, they’ll become your go-to autumn treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down). An Amazingly Easy Recipe: Don’t let the impressive looks fool you—this recipe is super simple! The puff pastry comes pre-made, and the filling is straightforward. You can even use store-bought glazed apples. It’s just a matter of assembling, baking, and enjoying. Apple & Dulce de Leche = A Heavenly Pairing: To me, the sweetness of the dulce de leche and the tartness of the apples are a match made in heaven. It’s a perfect balance that makes every bite more interesting than the last. They complement each other in a way that makes this dessert feel luxurious yet homey. Buttery, Flaky, and Totally Indulgent!!: These little puffs are everything you want in a treat—crispy, golden layers on the outside and a deliciously rich filling inside. The buttery flavor from the puff pastry really comes through with every bite. They’re indulgent, but isn’t that what makes them so special? Perfect Any Time of Day: These puffs aren’t just for dessert—they’re great as a snack, and they shine at breakfast, too! Paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea, they’re just what you need to start the day with a smile.
Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets: This is the magic ingredient that creates all those flaky layers. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge so it’s easy to handle but still cold. Note: You can also use Pillsbury Dough Sheet, Original Crescent, for a dairy-free version. Dulce de Leche: Rich, creamy, and sweet, this is the star of the filling. Note: You can make your own or buy it ready-made from the store. Milk: Used to brush the tops of the pastry for that golden color. Note: You can swap this with a non-dairy milk if needed. Coarse Sugar (Optional): Sprinkling coarse sugar on top before baking gives an extra sweet crunch. Apple Jelly or Jam (Optional): A fun addition to the filling if you want to amp up the apple flavor.
For the Glazed Apples:
Butter: Helps cook the apples until tender and adds richness. Tart Apples: I recommend Granny Smith for their tart flavor, which balances the sweetness of the dulce de leche. Cold Water & Cornstarch: This helps thicken the glaze, making the apples sticky and delicious. Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apples. Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warm spices are a must for that cozy fall flavor. Pure Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness.
Shortcut Tip: If you’re short on time or just want to make things even easier, you can totally use store-bought apple pie filling instead of making the glazed apples from scratch! Just spoon a bit of the filling onto the puff pastry with the dulce de leche, and you’ll still get that delicious apple flavor without the extra steps. Perfect for busy days when you still want to bake up something amazing!
Process Overview: Step-by-Step Photos
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
Food Allergy Swaps
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free puff pastry and swap butter with a plant-based alternative. You can also use Pillsbury Dough Sheet, Original Crescent.
Keep your puff pastry as cold as possible while working with it to maintain its flaky texture. Don’t overfill the puffs, or the dulce de leche might ooze out too much during baking. If your apples are very juicy, cook them a little longer to evaporate some liquid so they don’t make the pastry soggy.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free puff pastry (available at many specialty stores).
Variations & Additions
Salty Twist: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty twist. Other Fruits: Substitute apples for peaches or pears. Extra Crunch: If you want to get fancy, add a spoonful of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) inside the puffs for a bit of crunch.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
To Store: Keep the puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To Freeze: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked puffs for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator, then continue to bake them as instructed.
More Apple Recipes You’ll Love!
Easy Homemade Apple Cider Eggless Old Fashioned Powdered Sugar Donuts Eggless Salted Caramel Apple Cheese Danish Eggless Apple Cider Donut Cake Eggless Apple Oatmeal Baked Cups (Flourless) Eggless Apple Spice Cake Eggless Apple Cinnamon Rolls Easy Apple Butter (Small Batch) Eggless Apple Cider Donuts Browse more recipes…
Recipe Card 📖
