Are you craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that's surprisingly quick to prepare? Look no further than these Apple Cheddar Bundles! This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry for a truly delightful experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, these bundles are sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas without compromising on taste. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) ready-made puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, gently toss the apple slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and sage. This helps distribute the flavors evenly and prevents the apples from sticking together.
Step 2: Assembling the Bundles
- Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If it's still a bit stiff, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese evenly over the pastry.
- Arrange the apple mixture over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the apples.
Step 3: Baking the Bundles
- Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log.
- Cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
- Place the bundles cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the bundles with the beaten egg wash. This creates a beautiful golden-brown finish and adds a touch of richness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serving
- Remove the Apple Cheddar Bundles from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious bundles warm! They're fantastic on their own or served alongside a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon to the apple mixture.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture.
- Make it a main course: Serve these bundles with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy soup.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These Apple Cheddar Bundles are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe showcases the best of homemade cooking and is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes these bundles a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!