Aunt Betty'S Apple Cinnamon Puffs
A delightful warm dessert featuring tender apple slices topped with soft dough and a cinnamon sugar center, perfect for cozy gatherings and apple lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a syrup by combining 1 cup of sugar and water in a saucepan. Add red food coloring if desired. Bring to a boil and simmer until sugar dissolves.
- Arrange the peeled and thinly sliced apples in an 8 x 12 inch baking dish. Pour the syrup over the apples.
- Prepare a soft dough by mixing 1 1/2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/4 cup of shortening and stir in 3/4 cup of milk until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the apples, making a dent in the top of each piece.
- Place a teaspoonful of the melted butter mixed with sugar and cinnamon into each dent.
- Bake at 450°F for 25 to 30 minutes until the dough is golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm, optionally with cream or milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you want to add a spicy kick, sprinkle some nutmeg or allspice into the dough. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're out of milk, almond or oat milk works as a great alternative in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm for the best flavor, and consider pairing these puffs with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. They also go well with a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a delightful brunch option, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or with a slice of Cheese And Onion Corn Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture of the dough while ensuring they are deliciously warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Betty'S Apple Cinnamon Puffs contains roughly 716 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different varieties of apples such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Just ensure they are firm apples so they hold their shape while baking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Aunt Betty's Apple Cinnamon Puffs gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free, and you should achieve a similar texture without gluten.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple layer and syrup in advance and store them in the fridge. Just mix the dough and assemble before baking to enjoy fresh puffs. This makes it a great option for gatherings or busy mornings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).