Puff Pastry Hasselback Apple Parcels

Puff pastry Hasselback apple parcels are a visually stunning dessert that combines buttery, flaky pastry with tender, spiced apples. This version keeps the apple halves exposed and scored, giving them a delicate, fanned appearance, while twisted puff pastry edges encase the base. They are perfect for brunch, dessert, or an elegant afternoon treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 2-3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and halved
• 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Apples
   Peel and core the apples, then cut them in half. Make thin, evenly spaced cuts along the top of each half, without cutting all the way through, to create the classic Hasselback effect. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Brush or sprinkle the mixture over the apple halves, and fold in nuts or dried fruit if desired.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
   Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares large enough to hold one apple half each.
3. Assemble the Parcels
   Place a scored apple half in the center of each pastry square. Gently twist the edges of the pastry outward around the base of the apple to form a rustic border, leaving the top of the apple exposed. The twisted edges hold the filling while creating a decorative look.
4. Add the Egg Wash
   Brush the twisted edges of the pastry with beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy finish when baked. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra brown sugar on the pastry edges for a caramelized effect.
5. Bake
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the parcels on it. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the apples are tender.
6. Serve
   Allow the parcels to cool slightly, then dust lightly with powdered sugar. Serve warm for best flavor and texture, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Tips for Perfect Hasselback Apple Parcels

• Use firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain structure.
• Keep puff pastry cold until baking to achieve maximum flakiness.
• Score apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking and a beautiful fanned look.
• Mini parcels work well for individual servings at gatherings.

These puff pastry Hasselback apple parcels are simple to make yet impressive in presentation. The combination of crisp, buttery pastry with tender, spiced apple halves creates a dessert that is both elegant and delicious, perfect for any occasion.