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Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw according to the package instructions.
- Once thawed, lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheets until they are about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer for your apple pastries.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- While your puff pastry is thawing, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces (about 1/2 inch in size).
- In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples have softened but still hold their shape.
- If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the apple mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and set the apple filling aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
- Lay out your puff pastry squares or rectangles on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the cooled apple filling into the center of each square, making sure to leave a border around the edges.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, depending on the shape you cut. Press the edges together using a fork to seal the pastries. You can also create a lattice pattern by cutting thin strips of pastry dough and layering them on top of the filling before sealing.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 2 tablespoons of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the pastries with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.
