These Apple Cheddar Bundles combine flaky puff pastry with sweet, crisp apples and sharp cheddar for a perfectly balanced bite.
Rich in fiber from the apples and providing good fats from pecans, they’re a wholesome treat that satisfies sweet and savory cravings alike.
Quick to assemble and bake, they’re ideal for effortless weekday snacks or brunch gatherings.
Apple Cheddar Bundles
Equipment
- 2 sheet trays
- Parchment paper (to line trays)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small bowl for egg wash
- Whisk or fork (for egg wash)
- Box grater (for cheddar cheese)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 2 medium Honeycrisp apples cored and sliced 1/8-inch thick
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 6 tablespoons honey divided
- 1 17.3 oz package frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons flaky sea salt
- 1/4 cup roasted pecans chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures the puff pastry won’t stick and makes cleanup effortless. While the oven warms, gather all your ingredients so assembly is smooth and stress-free.
- Toss Apples and Flavorings: In a medium bowl, combine the apple slices, lemon zest, and 4 tablespoons of honey. Gently toss until each slice is coated evenly. The honey adds natural sweetness while the lemon zest brightens the flavor, creating a perfect balance to complement the sharp cheddar.
- Prepare Pastry Squares: Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into four equal squares (approximately 4.5” x 4.5”), giving you a total of 8 squares. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash, which will give your bundles a golden, glossy finish.
- Assemble Bundles: Lay each pastry square so a corner points toward you. Brush the edges lightly with egg wash to help seal. Place about 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar on the bottom of each square, then layer 10–11 apple slices on top. Sprinkle another tablespoon of cheddar over the apples. Fold the left corner over the apples and press lightly to seal, then fold the right corner over and seal. Brush the tops and sides with egg wash, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Bake Until Golden: Arrange four bundles on each prepared baking sheet, leaving space for puffing.Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through to ensure even browning. The pastry should be puffed, golden brown, and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Finish with Honey, Pecans, and Thyme: Once slightly cooled, transfer the bundles to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey, sprinkle with chopped roasted pecans, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. The honey adds a luscious sheen, the pecans provide a satisfying crunch, and the thyme gives an aromatic touch that elevates each bite.
Notes
- Use Honeycrisp apples for sweet, crisp slices that hold their shape.
- Sharp cheddar enhances flavor, while milder cheddar creates a gooier texture.
- Puff pastry must be thawed but cold for easy folding and optimal puff.
- Egg wash ensures a golden, glossy finish and helps seal the pastry.
- Add pecans and thyme last to maintain texture and freshness.
- Baking time may vary slightly—watch for golden edges and puffed pastry.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture, though slightly cooled is also enjoyable.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips For Perfect Bundles
Creating the perfect Apple Cheddar Bundles is about balancing flavors and textures.
Start by selecting ripe, firm apples; their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with sharp cheddar.
Keep your puff pastry cold until assembly, which ensures maximum puff and prevents sogginess.
For added depth, lightly toast pecans before topping—they enhance the nutty flavor.
Don’t overstuff the bundles, as too many apple slices can make sealing tricky.
Finally, a careful egg wash application guarantees a beautiful golden finish without dripping over the edges.
Serving Suggestions: How To Present Perfectly
These bundles shine on any table. Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey, paired with fresh fruit or a light green salad for brunch.
They’re ideal with beverages like apple cider mimosas, amaretto sours, or a lightly spiced tea.
For parties, place them on a platter with fresh thyme sprigs and chopped pecans for a visually appealing presentation.
They’re also perfect for breakfast-on-the-go or as a sweet-savory snack during work breaks or casual gatherings.
Storage Tips: Keep Bundles Fresh Longer
If you have leftovers, store them in a zip-top bag or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes to revive the crisp pastry and warm the apples.
Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy.
For meal prep, you can assemble bundles ahead of time and bake on the day you plan to serve—they’ll remain fresh if stored uncooked in the fridge for a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, though some apples are better suited for baking.
Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are excellent choices because they hold their shape and provide natural sweetness.
Avoid very soft apples like McIntosh, which can turn mushy.
2. Can I make these vegan?
You can replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or aquafaba and swap cheddar for a vegan cheese alternative.
Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly from the original.
3. Can I freeze these bundles?
Yes! Assemble the bundles but do not bake. Freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to an airtight container.
Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. How do I prevent soggy pastry?
Ensure the apples are evenly coated with honey but not overly wet.
Keep the puff pastry cold until baking, and avoid overfilling the bundles, which can release extra moisture.
5. Can I add other flavors or toppings?
Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the apples beautifully.
You can also substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, or drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey for a unique twist.
