Cinnamon Apple Galette - Recipes Mentor

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like savoring the flavors of autumn. One delightful way to celebrate the season is with a warm, rustic cinnamon apple galette. This French-inspired dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and tart apples, aromatic spices, and a flaky, buttery crust. The beauty of a galette is in its simplicity; it captures the essence of fall with every bite. Traditionally, galettes are associated with gatherings and celebrations, making them an ideal treat for holiday feasts, family reunions, or cozy evenings spent by the fireplace. So gather your loved ones and indulge in the warmth and comfort of this delightful dessert!

Tools and Equipment

To create your cinnamon apple galette, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Food processor: For efficiently mixing the crust ingredients.
Rolling pin: To roll out the dough into the perfect shape.
Baking sheet: A flat surface to bake the galette.
Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mixing bowls: For tossing the apples and mixing dry ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure ingredients.
Pastry brush: For applying cream to the crust before baking.

Ingredients List

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your cinnamon apple galette. Each component plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures of this delightful dish.

½ cup whole raw almonds: Adds a rich nuttiness and a hint of crunch to the crust.
1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour: The base of your galette dough, providing structure.
2 Tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and balances the tartness of the apples.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
1 egg yolk: Contributes to a tender crust and adds richness.
8 Tablespoons (1 stick) cold unsalted butter: Creates a flaky texture in the crust.
3-4 Tablespoons cold water: Helps to bind the dough together.
2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Gala): Provides the star ingredient, adding sweetness and a juicy element.
1 Tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling and prevents excess moisture.
1 Tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a deeper caramel flavor to the apple filling.
½ cup Cinnamon Apple Jelly: A sweet layer that pairs beautifully with the apples.
2 Tablespoons milk or cream: For brushing the crust, ensuring a golden finish.
1 Tablespoon granulated sugar: Used in the cinnamon sugar topping for extra sweetness.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm autumn flavor.

Preparation Steps

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to prepare your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Grind the almonds: Use a food processor to grind the almonds until they are mostly fine, with some larger chunks remaining for texture.
Mix dry ingredients: Add the flour, sugar, and salt to the food processor with the almonds. Pulse until well combined.
Incorporate butter: Cut the cold butter into small squares and add it to the processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles sand.
Add egg yolk: Incorporate the egg yolk and pulse briefly to combine.
Form the dough: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, while the processor runs, until the dough comes together. Turn it onto a lightly floured board, pat it into a disc, wrap it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

With your dough chilled and ingredients ready, it’s time to bring your cinnamon apple galette to life!

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the apples: Slice the apples into 1/8 to 1/4-inch slices without peeling them. Toss the slices in a large bowl with cornstarch and brown sugar to coat them evenly.
Roll out the dough: Remove the pastry dough from the refrigerator. If making individual galettes, cut the dough into 6 small triangles; otherwise, leave it whole for a large galette. Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten it into a rough circle about ¼ inch thick. Remember, imperfection adds to the rustic charm!
Assemble the galettes: Spread each dough circle with 2 tablespoons of Cinnamon Apple Jelly, leaving about an inch around the edges. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the jelly, overlapping them slightly.
Fold the edges: Gently fold the dough over the outer edge of the apples, pinching the folds together as needed to create a rustic border. Place each galette on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
Prepare for baking: In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Remove the galettes from the refrigerator, brush the edges with milk or cream, and sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The aroma will fill your kitchen with the essence of autumn!
Serve: Allow the galettes to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

This cinnamon apple galette not only delights the palate but also offers several nutritional benefits. Apples are a great source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full. They also contain vitamin C, which is important for immune function. The addition of almonds provides healthy fats and protein, contributing to overall heart health.

The use of cinnamon not only enhances flavor but is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits in regulating blood sugar levels. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dessert can also provide energy for your day. However, like any treat, it’s best enjoyed in moderation!

Common Mistakes and Tips to Perfect the Recipe

To ensure your cinnamon apple galette turns out perfectly, consider these common mistakes and tips:

Using warm butter: Always use cold butter for a flaky crust. It’s the key to that desirable texture.
Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for the butter to firm up, which prevents the galette from becoming greasy.
Overfilling with apples: Avoid overfilling the galette to prevent it from spilling over during baking.
Skipping the cinnamon sugar topping: This adds not only sweetness but also a beautiful finish to the crust.
Serving too cold: For the best experience, serve the galette warm. It enhances the flavors and pairs beautifully with ice cream.

Storage, Serving, and Reheating Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious galette, consider how to store any leftovers:

Storage: Store any leftover galette in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving suggestions: For an extra touch, drizzle a caramel sauce over the galette or sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture.

Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add a splash of lemon juice to the filling for a zesty lift!

FAQs and Recipe Variations

Here are some frequently asked questions and variations to consider:

Can I use other fruits besides apples? Yes! Pears, peaches, or even a mix of berries can be delightful alternatives.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have almond flour? You can substitute it with all-purpose flour, but you will miss out on the nutty flavor.
Can I freeze the galette? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked galette. Just bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Indulging in a slice of cinnamon apple galette is like taking a bite of autumn itself. With its flaky crust, sweet apple filling, and warm spices, it’s a dessert that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this rustic treat is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of the season. Happy baking!