Apple fondant horns

Apple Fondant Croissants: A Fluffy and Aromatic Delight

*A delicious treat, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, apple fondant croissants combine the sweetness of caramelized apples with the fluffy texture of the dough. This traditional recipe is an excellent choice to impress your family and friends.*

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 14-16 croissants

Ingredients:

*For the croissants:*
- 500 g flour
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 70 g sugar
- 260 ml lukewarm milk
- 50 g melted butter
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg

*For the fondant:*
- 200 g peeled and diced apples
- 2 eggs
- 20 g sugar
- 60 ml cream
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 15 g potato or corn starch (or 3 tablespoons of semolina)
- 60 g butter
- 100 ml water

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Dough:
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk, adding a tablespoon of sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of flour. Mix well and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step to activate the yeast.
- In another bowl, combine the remaining flour, the rest of the sugar, and the salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Knead the dough until it pulls away from your hands and becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for one hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.

2. Preparing the Apple Fondant:
- In a saucepan, add the diced apples along with the sugar and caramelize them over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. Once the apples are softened and start releasing their juice, add the water and continue cooking until the apples absorb all the liquid.
- Once the apples are ready, blend them until you obtain a smooth puree and let it cool.
- In another bowl, melt the butter and add the eggs, cream, vanilla sugar, and starch. Mix well, then incorporate the apple puree. Cook the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth cream. Let it cool.

3. Shaping the Croissants:
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into 14 or 16 pieces, depending on the desired size. Dust the work surface with flour and roll each piece of dough into a rectangle.
- One half of the rectangle remains whole, while the other half is cut into thin strips. On top of the whole half, place a portion of the apple cream, then carefully wrap the strips of dough over the filling, forming the croissants.

4. Baking the Croissants:
- Place the croissants in a greased or parchment-lined baking tray. Prepare a mixture of egg, milk, and lemon and orange zest to brush over the croissants. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Let the croissants rise for another 20 minutes, then place them in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.

5. Serving:
- Once the croissants have cooled slightly, you can serve them plain or with a drizzle of caramel sauce. These croissants are delicious alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert.

Practical Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even dough.
- If you want to make the croissants more interesting, you can add cinnamon or ground nuts to the filling.
- While baking, you can use a tray of water in the oven to create steam, which will make the croissants even fluffier.

Nutritional Information (per approximate serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g

Possible Variations:
- Instead of apples, you can use pears or peaches, and for an exotic flavor, add a few drops of almond essence to the filling.
- Instead of butter, you can use coconut oil for a healthier option.

Apple fondant croissants are a perfect choice for any occasion, and each bite will take you back to moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. Don’t forget to share the result with your friends – they will surely appreciate your effort!

 Ingredients: For the croissants: -500 g flour -20 g yeast -70 g sugar -260 g milk -50 g butter -salt -1 egg For the fondant: -200 g peeled and diced apples -2 eggs -20 g sugar -60 ml sour cream -1 packet vanilla sugar -15 g potato or corn starch (can be replaced with 3 tablespoons of semolina) -60 g butter -100 ml water