Apple Phyllo Rolls

Apple Phyllo Rolls Recipe - Delicious Greek Dessert

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Apple Phyllo Rolls are a delightful and elegant dessert that combines the crispiness of phyllo pastry with the sweet and tangy flavor of apples. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that is not overly sweet but is packed with flavor. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, spicy note that complements the apples beautifully. These rolls are ideal for serving at dinner parties, as part of a brunch menu, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

History

The use of phyllo dough dates back to the Ottoman Empire, and it has been a staple in Middle Eastern and Balkan cuisines for centuries. The technique of layering thin sheets of dough to create pastries was later adopted in various European cuisines, including Greek, where it is famously used in dishes like baklava and spanakopita. The concept of apple rolls or turnovers is more widely associated with Western European and American baking traditions, where apples are a common filling for pies and pastries. This recipe combines the delicate, flaky texture of phyllo pastry with a classic apple filling, creating a fusion of culinary traditions that is both modern and deeply rooted in history.

Ingredients

Apple Phyllo Pastry

butter-flavored vegetable cooking spray
2 cups of diced apple
1 to 2 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of ground nutmeg
1.5 tsp of brown sugar
9 sheets of commercial frozen phyllo pastry, thawed
3 tbsp of sifted powdered sugar
1 tsp of vanilla extract
0.5 tsp of water

How to prepare

Coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.
Add diced apple and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often.
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Stir well and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool.
Coat a flat surface with cooking spray and place 1 sheet of phyllo on the surface (keep remaining phyllo covered).
Coat the phyllo with butter-flavored cooking spray.
Layer 2 more sheets of phyllo on top of the first sheet, coating each with cooking spray.
Cut vertically into 5 equal strips, then cut the strips in half to make 10 pieces.
Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets, spraying each sheet with cooking spray.
Spoon 1.5 tsp of apple mixture at the base of each strip and roll up jelly roll fashion.
Place the rolls, seam side down, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl and stir well.
Drizzle 1.5 tsp of glaze over each roll.
Serve warm.

Variations

Pear Phyllo Rolls: Substitute diced pears for the apples for a different flavor profile.
Spiced Pumpkin Phyllo Rolls: Use canned pumpkin puree mixed with pumpkin pie spice instead of the apple mixture for a fall-inspired variation.
Chocolate and Banana Phyllo Rolls: Fill the rolls with slices of banana and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep the phyllo pastry covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.

- Use cooking spray between the layers of phyllo to keep them moist and to achieve a golden, crispy finish.

- Be gentle when rolling the phyllo to avoid tearing the delicate sheets.

- Let the apple mixture cool before adding it to the phyllo to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.

- Bake the rolls until they are a deep golden brown to ensure the pastry is fully cooked and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Apple Phyllo Rolls warm, drizzled with the vanilla and powdered sugar glaze. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a lighter option, serve alongside a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling water.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is working with phyllo pastry. It requires a gentle touch and patience to layer and roll the delicate sheets without tearing them. Sautéing the apples before rolling them in the phyllo ensures they are soft and flavorful, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of brown sugar for a different type of sweetness.

- Pears or peaches can be used instead of apples for a variation on the filling.

- For a vegan version, ensure that the cooking spray and powdered sugar are vegan-friendly.

Make Ahead Tips

The apple mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble and bake the rolls just before serving to ensure they are crispy and fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the rolls with additional powdered sugar and serve on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves or thin apple slices for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Phyllo Rolls pair wonderfully with a dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a Moscato. The sweetness of the wine complements the spiced apple filling, making for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until crispy and warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Apple Phyllo Rolls contains approximately 120 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a dessert, especially when compared to more traditional pastries and baked goods.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Apple Phyllo Rolls contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the apples and the phyllo pastry. Apples provide natural sugars and dietary fiber, while the phyllo pastry contributes refined carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is relatively low in fats, with each serving containing about 2 grams of fat. The minimal fat content comes from the cooking spray used to coat the phyllo sheets. Opting for a butter-flavored cooking spray adds a hint of richness without significantly increasing the fat content.

Proteins

Apple Phyllo Rolls are not a significant source of protein, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of protein. This dessert is primarily a source of carbohydrates.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports the immune system, while potassium is essential for heart health and muscle function. The amounts of these nutrients in each serving of Apple Phyllo Rolls are modest but contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dessert.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including nuts, dairy, and eggs. However, individuals with gluten sensitivities should be cautious, as phyllo pastry is made from wheat flour.

Summary

Apple Phyllo Rolls are a low-fat, low-calorie dessert option that provides a modest amount of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. They are a good choice for those looking for a lighter dessert that does not compromise on flavor or texture.

Summary

Apple Phyllo Rolls are a delightful fusion of traditional and modern baking techniques, resulting in a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. With their crispy exterior, spiced apple filling, and low-calorie profile, they are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served at a formal dinner party or enjoyed as a simple snack, these rolls are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Apple Phyllo Rolls. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were starting to change colors and there was a slight chill in the air. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her amazing baking skills. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted with the most delicious aroma of cinnamon and apples.

Margaret was bustling around her kitchen, rolling out dough and slicing apples with ease. I watched in awe as she effortlessly put together these beautiful apple phyllo rolls, layering the delicate phyllo pastry with spiced apples and a touch of honey. I was mesmerized by her skill and asked her for the recipe immediately.

Margaret smiled warmly and handed me a faded recipe card, telling me that she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that I had to make these apple phyllo rolls for my own family.

I carefully followed Margaret's instructions, mixing together the diced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon juice. I layered the phyllo pastry sheets with melted butter and the apple mixture, rolling them into tight spirals. As I brushed the tops of the rolls with honey and sprinkled them with sugar, I couldn't wait to see the finished result.

When I pulled the apple phyllo rolls out of the oven, they were golden brown and crispy, with the sweet aroma of baked apples and spices filling the kitchen. I couldn't resist taking a bite right away, savoring the flaky pastry and tender apples bursting with flavor. They were absolutely divine.

From that day on, the recipe for Apple Phyllo Rolls became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when I wanted to treat myself to something sweet. Over the years, I have made small tweaks to the recipe, adding a touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch.

As I shared this recipe with friends and family, it soon became a beloved favorite. My grandchildren would beg me to make them whenever they came to visit, and I was always happy to oblige. There is something truly magical about these apple phyllo rolls - they have a way of bringing people together and creating cherished memories.

I often think back to that autumn day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first discovered the recipe for Apple Phyllo Rolls. It was a moment that sparked a passion for baking and cooking that has stayed with me ever since. I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years, each one adding a special touch to my culinary repertoire.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to the next generation, I hope that they will enjoy making these apple phyllo rolls as much as I have. May they bring joy and comfort to all who taste them, just as they have done for me and my loved ones. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, connecting us to our past and creating new traditions for the future. And for that, I am forever grateful.