Imagine a dessert so irresistible that it transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary culinary experiences. These Apple Hazelnut Frangipane Pie Bites are not just a treat; they're a miniature work of art that combines the rich, nutty warmth of hazelnuts with the delicate sweetness of fresh apples, all nestled in a perfectly crisp gluten-free pastry. Whether you're hosting an elegant gathering or craving a sophisticated personal indulgence, these bite-sized delights promise to elevate your dessert game and leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 12 pie bites
Ingredients
- 1 sheet gluten-free puff pastry
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, ground
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine ground hazelnuts, sugar, softened butter, egg, and almond extract. Mix until a smooth frangipane cream forms.
- Carefully unroll the gluten-free puff pastry sheet and cut into 12 equal squares using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
- Spread a small amount of hazelnut frangipane mixture in the center of each pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Thinly slice the apple and arrange 2-3 delicate apple slices on top of the frangipane cream in a fan-like pattern.
- Fold the corners of each pastry square slightly inward, creating a rustic, open-faced tartlet shape.
- Place the pie bites on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant finish.
Tips
- Keep your puff pastry cold: Work quickly and ensure the pastry stays chilled to maintain its flaky texture.
- Slice apples thinly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create uniform, delicate apple slices that cook evenly.
- Don't overfill: Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Check pastry color: Golden brown is your goal - this indicates perfect crispness and flavor development.
- Let cool slightly: Allowing the pie bites to rest for 10 minutes helps them set and makes handling easier.
- Dust just before serving: Add powdered sugar at the last moment to keep it looking fresh and prevent absorption.
- Experiment with variations: Try different nuts or add a touch of cinnamon to customize your frangipane cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
