There’s something truly magical about the aroma of baked apples wafting through your home, wrapping you in a warm and cozy hug. If you’re looking to recreate that cozy feeling in your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat with the delightful recipe for Hessischer Apfeltraum. This traditional German apple dessert will transport you to a quaint countryside café with every bite. The perfect blend of tart apples, sweet cinnamon, and buttery pastry makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this heavenly apple dream!
Hessischer Apfeltraum
**Ingredients:**
– 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 6 sheets of phyllo pastry
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Apples**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated in the sugary spice mixture. Set aside to macerate while you prepare the phyllo pastry.
2. **Assemble the Layers**: Place one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and repeat until you have a stack of six buttered phyllo sheets.
3. **Add the Apples**: Spoon the apple mixture along one edge of the phyllo stack, leaving a border of about 2 inches. Gently roll the phyllo stack into a log, tucking in the ends as you roll to seal in the apple filling.
4. **Bake to Perfection**: Carefully transfer the rolled phyllo log onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with the remaining melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
5. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once baked, allow the Hessischer Apfeltraum to cool slightly before slicing into beautiful spiraled portions. Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
This Hessischer Apfeltraum is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples with the flaky, buttery layers of phyllo pastry. The comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg add a nostalgic touch that will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy haven. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a special homemade dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a journey to apple-filled bliss with this delicious Hessischer Apfeltraum!
