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This image shows a golden-brown braided apple puff pastry with a glossy egg wash brushed on top for shine, creating a beautiful and appetizing finish.

Apple Puff Pastry Braid Recipe

A golden, flaky Apple Puff Pastry Braid is the perfect blend of buttery layers and spiced apple filling. This stunning yet simple pastry features a crisp, sugary crust with a warm, cinnamon-kissed center. Easy to assemble and bake, it’s an impressive treat for any occasion.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Small bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 sheet puff pastry thawed per directions on the box
  • 2 tsp coarse sugar
  • Splash of water
  • 8 oz apple pie filling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    This image shows the oven being preheated while the baking sheet is lined and ready to hold the puff pastry, setting the stage for perfect results.
  • Unfold the puff pastry and place it on the prepared sheet.
    This image shows puff pastry being carefully placed onto the prepared baking sheet, ready to be filled and shaped into a delicious treat.
  • Spread the apple pie filling down the center of the pastry and sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top.
    This image shows spoonfuls of warm apple pie filling with a dash of cinnamon being added to the center of the puff pastry, ready to be folded and baked.
  • Using a sharp knife, make eight diagonal cuts along both sides of the filling, ensuring they angle toward the bottom.
  • Trim off the excess pastry at both the top and bottom, leaving the center pieces intact.
  • Fold the top of the pastry over the filling, then alternately cross the strips from each side over one another, forming a braided pattern.
    This image shows the apple puff pastry being braided, creating an elegant twist that will bake into a golden, flaky masterpiece.
  • Before reaching the last two strips at the bottom, fold the pastry’s bottom edge over the filling and complete the braid.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water and brush this mixture over the entire pastry.
    This image shows an egg wash being whisked in preparation for brushing onto the puff pastry, ensuring a golden and shiny crust after baking.
  • Sprinkle coarse sugar evenly on top.
  • Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
    This image shows the baked apple puff pastry cooling on a rack, its golden-brown layers tempting you to dig into the delicious, flaky dessert.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling.
  • A drizzle of caramel or icing on top enhances the sweetness.
  • Using a ruler helps create even braid strips for a polished look.