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    Home / Recipes / Desserts

    Apple Puff Pastry Tart in Air Fryer

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jan 2, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Jump to Recipe
    Apple puff pastry with glaze and ice cream on a white plate, accompanied by sliced apples. Close-up below shows a hand holding a piece of the pastry.
    Apple puff pastry tart with icing, topped with apple slices and served with ice cream. Two stages of preparation shown: assembling the tart and the finished baked tart.

    Enjoy this flaky, buttery pastry filled with warm and sweet apples. It’s made in minutes using the air fryer.

    A dessert plate with a pastry topped with sliced red apples and white drizzle, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream and additional apple slices. Red apples are in the background.

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    This apple and puff pastry tart is crispy, flaky, buttery and so sweet. It is made with a store bought puff pastry for convenience, sliced apples, and topped with caramel syrup. It’s such a great dessert to enjoy when you are wanting something a little sweet. 

    Like my chocolate puff pastry, and brie and cranberry puff pastry,  this puff pastry apple tart is made in the air fryer. That means it’s ready in just a few minutes. Of course, there is minimal prep with this dessert which is so nice. I love that I can have a taste of apple pie at my fingertips. 

    The tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion. It is so simple to put together and make that it’s great to serve during the holidays, as a dessert after family dinner or even as an afternoon pick me up snack.If you are looking for more apple themed desserts, be sure to check out my apple crisp and these tasty apple pie cookies.

    Ingredients

    Baking tray with pastry dough, apple, egg, butter, flour, cream, and caramel sauce on white bowls. Red checkered cloth on the side.
    • Apple: I recommend using either Gala or Pink Lady.
    • Puff pastry: I used the Pepperidge Farm brand. This recipe only uses ⅓ of the sheet.
    • Caramel syrup: Adds a molasses and buttery flavoring.
    • Unsalted butter: Softened butter to brush the pastry.
    • Honey: To add a touch of sweetness.
    • Sugar glaze: Confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream.
    • Egg wash: 1 small egg and water

    Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

    Instructions

    Let’s start by preheating the air fryer. You will also want to make sure when you take your puff pastry out that it is cold, not frozen or too thawed. Follow the steps below to make this simple dessert.

    Person cutting a rectangular shape into a sheet of puff pastry on parchment paper with a knife.

    Gently place the puff pastry onto the Air Fryer tray lined with parchment paper. Create a border by making a ½ inch slit on all sides, without cutting through the bottom part, similar to a picture frame.

    Two unbaked puff pastry rectangles on parchment paper, placed on a black baking tray.

    Poke small holes in the middle of the puff pastry using the tip of a knife or a fork. Beat egg and mix with water (if using). Lightly brush all sides of puff pastry with prepared egg wash.

    A red apple is sliced on a wooden plate with a blue-handled knife beside it on a white countertop.

    Air Fry Puff Pastry for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, slice the apple thinly.

    Two golden-brown puff pastries on a parchment paper-lined baking tray.

    Remove pastry from Air Fryer after 10 minutes.

    Two rectangular pastries on parchment paper, one being pressed down with a black tool, resting on a baking tray.

    Create a hallow center for the apple slices using the tip of a wooden spatula. Push the middle part of the puffed pastry without breaking the border.

    Two apple pastries with sliced apples on top, set on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    Drizzle caramel syrup in the hallowed part of puff pastry. Then, cover with slices of apples, one slice over the next.

    Two rectangular apple pastries on parchment paper, with thinly sliced apples on a golden, flaky puff pastry base.

    Lightly brush apples with softened butter. Drizzle with honey.

    Two rectangular apple pastries on parchment paper atop a baking tray.

    Air fry for 5 to 8 minutes or until puff pastry is golden brown and apples are tender.

    A close-up of a spoon stirring creamy white sauce in a bowl.

    Combine confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream until completely smooth and creamy.

    Two apple pastries with icing drizzle on parchment paper in a baking tray.

    Remove the tarts and transfer to a baking sheet, then allow to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the prepared sugar glaze.

    Hint: ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold. This helps the pastry puff up properly without becoming soggy.

    Variations

    Here are a few ways you can customize your apple and puff pastry tart:

    • Add warm spices. You can sprinkle in some cinnamon, nutmeg, clove or allspice on top of the apples to give them a cozy and warm taste.
    • Add some crunch.  Give some extra crunch along with the crispy pastry by adding in some candied almonds or these honey spiced walnuts.
    • Change up the sweetener. In place of the honey, use maple syrup to sweeten the pastry.
    • Change up the syrup. You can use chocolate or even a pumpkin based syrup instead of the caramel if you want a different flavor profile.
    Two white plates with apple pastries drizzled with icing. Sliced apples are on one plate next to a pastry. Red apples and a red cloth are partially visible on the table.

    Tips

    Top tip: Use parchment paper or an air fryer-safe liner to prevent the apple tart from sticking and make cleanup easier.

    • Preheat the air fryer. Each air fryer is different but you want to make sure the fryer is heated before placing puff pastry in so it will bake up evenly.
    • Use a store-bought puff pastry sheet. This will cut down on time and is so convenient. You can store the leftover sheet in the freezer or use to make these this chocolate puff pastry too.
    • Use puff pastry that is cold, not frozen or thawed. You don’t want the puff pastry completely thawed or frozen before cutting the border. It’s easier to work when cold to create that picture frame border.
    • Slice apples thinly. This will allow them to cook up nicely and they will be softened instead of firm.
    • Combine the confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream. You will want to make sure it is creamy and smooth. There should be no lumps. Stir before drizzling over the pastry.
    • Check for the doneness of puff pastry. Keep an eye on the tart toward the end of the cooking time, as air fryers can vary in heat distribution and may cook faster than expected. The pastry should be golden brown and the apples should all be tender.
    A hand holds a slice of apple pastry with drizzled icing. More pastries are visible on a plate in the background.

    Serving suggestions

    This apple and puff pastry tart is such a delightful, sweet treat. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. The combination tastes just like apple pie. You can also drizzle a little extra honey or even chocolate syrup overtop adding to the sweetness. 

    For some added crunch and savoriness, I’d recommend sprinkling these candied almonds or these honey spiced walnuts over the pastry. The crunchy, flaky pastry with the tender apples along with the sweetened nuts is such a great combination.Don’t forget to enjoy with a nice warm hot chocolate this time of year or maybe sip over your favorite coffee or glass of tea.

    Storage

    Puff pastry apple tarts are best served immediately. You can store any leftovers by placing them in an airtight container and refrigerating for 1 to 2 days.

    To reheat, place in a preheated air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes or until crisp again. 

    To freeze, place puff pastry in a freezer safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month.

    FAQs

    What type of apples are the best to use for this puff pastry apple tart?

    I recommend using Gala or Pink Lady but use what you have on hand.

    Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

    They taste best immediately but you can make ahead a day in advance and then just pop back in the air fryer to crisp back up.

    Can this apple tart on puff pastry be made in the oven?

    Yes, this can be baked. Assemble as directed then place in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

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    Recipe

    Apple pastry with icing on a white plate, accompanied by sliced apples and a scoop of ice cream topped with syrup.
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    Air Fryer Apple and Puff Pastry Tart

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    Make an easy apple puff pastry tart in your air fryer! This quick dessert is flaky, sweet, and perfect for last-minute cravings.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time18 minutes mins
    Cool Time2 minutes mins
    Total Time25 minutes mins
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: American
    Diet: Vegetarian
    Servings (Adjustable): 2
    Calories: 371kcal
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    Ingredients

    • 1 Apple I used Gala and Pink Lady
    • ⅓ sheet puff pastry
    • 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
    • ½ tablespoon softened unsalted butter
    • ½ tablespoon honey

    Sugar Glaze:

    • 1 tablespoon confectioner’s sugar
    • 1 teaspoon heavy cream

    Egg Wash:

    • 1 small egg
    • ⅛ teaspoon water optional

    Instructions

    • Preheat Air Fryer at 370°F (188°C). Set at 18 minutes.
    • Slightly thaw ⅓ puff pastry and equally cut into two pieces.
    • Gently place the puff pastry onto the Air Fryer tray lined with parchment paper.
    • Create a border by making a ½ inch slit on all sides, without cutting through the bottom part, similar to a board in a picture frame.
    • Poke small holes in the middle of the puff pastry using the tip of a knife or a fork.
    • Beat egg and mix with water (if using). Lightly brush all sides of puff pastry with prepared egg wash.
    • Slowly insert Air Fryer tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch. Air Fry Puff Pastry for 10 minutes.
    • Meanwhile, cut the apple in half without cutting through the seeds. Cut the sides to fit in the middle of the pastry. Slice the apple thinly.
    • Remove Air Fryer tray after 10 minutes. Create a hallow center for the apple slices using the tip of a wooden spatula. Push the middle part of the puffed pastry without breaking the border.
    • See tips or notes when closing the door.
    • Drizzle caramel syrup at the hallowed puff pastry.
    • Arrange slices of apples, one slice over the next.
    • Lightly brush apples with softened butter. Drizzle with honey.
    • Return Air Fryer tray in the middle cooking chamber and Air Fryer for 5 to 8 minutes or until puff pastry is golden brown and apples are tender.
    • Meantime, prepare the sugar glaze. Combine confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream until completely smooth and creamy.
    • Remove the Air Fryer tray and transfer to a baking sheet, then allow to cool the Apple Tart puff pastry for a few minutes before drizzling the prepared sugar glaze.
    • Serve as is or pair with your favorite vanilla ice cream. For added crunch, top with chopped Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts or Air Fryer Candied Almonds.

    Notes

    This Air Fryer recipe uses an Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven. Not all Air Fryers cook the same way. It’s best to keep watch during your initial tests after purchasing.
    TIPS:
    I used ⅓ of 1 sheet of the Pepperidge Farm puff pastry. I separated the sheet using the guide of the fold while still slightly frozen. Immediately return the remaining frozen pastry sheet back to the freezer.
    Do not completely thaw the puff pastry before cutting through the boarder. It’s easier to work if the puff pastry isn’t completely thawed.
    Combine the confectioner’s sugar and heavy cream until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps or grains. Give another stir before drizzling over the puff pastry.
    For added crunch, top with chopped Air Fryer Honey Spiced Walnuts or Air Fryer Candied Almonds. (See Little Bit Recipes published posts)
    Slightly drizzled caramel and honey provide a sweet treat, but don’t forget the addition of sugar glaze will add additional sweetness. It’s ideal to pair with vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot tea to balance the sweetness.
    Close the Air Fryer door while adding the apple slices and manually adjust the timer as needed.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 371kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 165mg | Potassium: 161mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 285IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 2mg

    Equipment

    Fork and spoon
    Measuring Spoons
    Knife
    Chopping Board or Wooden Plate
    Baking tray
    Air Fryer Tray
    Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven

    © LittleBitRecipes.com - All content and photographs are copyright protected by us. We appreciate sharing our recipes; but copying, pasting, or duplicating full recipes to any social media, website, or electronic/printed media is strictly prohibited and a violation of our copyrights. Single photos may be used, provided that full credit is given to us along with a link back to the original content.

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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