Javanese-style Apple Chaussons

Ingredients

In this Javanese adaptation of the French Chaussons aux pommes, we incorporate traditional Javanese spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg into the apple filling. These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor profile, giving the chaussons a distinct Javanese twist. Additionally, the pastry may be slightly modified to incorporate local ingredients and techniques, ensuring an authentic Javanese culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Chaussons aux pommes, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (total), 11g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 38g (total), 16g (sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the apples evenly with the spices.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into smaller circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the spiced apple filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
7. 7.
   Transfer the filled chaussons onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chaussons are golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Pink Lady for a balanced flavor and texture in the filling.
• Cinnamon — Use ground cinnamon for convenience, but if you have access to whole cinnamon sticks, you can grind them fresh for a more intense flavor.
• Pastry — Keep the butter cold throughout the preparation process to ensure a flaky and tender pastry. If the dough becomes too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes before continuing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger to the apple filling.
• Serve the chaussons warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the amount of sugar in the apple filling to suit your taste.
• Experiment with different apple varieties to discover unique flavor combinations.
• These chaussons can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Javanese-style Apple Chaussons warm as a dessert or a sweet snack. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Javanese-style Apple Chaussons on a serving platter or individual dessert plates. Sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for a beautiful presentation. Consider garnishing with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of ground cinnamon for an added visual appeal.