Romanian Apple Pastissus

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 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 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, and sugar. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pastries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
• Butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed before incorporating it into the dough for a flaky crust.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of the pastries before baking.
• Serve the pastries warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
• If you prefer a more tart filling, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the apple mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Romanian Apple Pastissus warm as a delightful dessert or enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pastries on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant and inviting presentation. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.