Apple Samoas have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandma would make a batch every time we visited, and the smell of caramelized apples and toasted coconut would fill the entire house. I can still remember the way the warm, gooey filling would ooze out as I took that first heavenly bite, the flavors bursting on my tongue. Those moments spent in Grandma’s kitchen, watching her work her magic, are some of my most cherished memories.
Why This Apple Samoas Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
Even now, as an adult, I crave those comforting flavors of my childhood. But instead of waiting for Grandma’s next visit, I’ve perfected my own Apple Samoas recipe, and it’s become a staple in my household. This recipe captures all the nostalgia of those family gatherings, with a few tricks up my sleeve to make them even more irresistible.
The Secret Behind Perfect Apple Samoas
The key to these Apple Samoas is striking the perfect balance between the buttery, flaky pastry and the sweet, spiced apple filling. I’ve experimented with different techniques to ensure the pastry is light and tender, while the filling remains rich and indulgent. And the addition of a touch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of toasted coconut takes these Apple Samoas to the next level, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and unique.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Apple Samoas, you’ll need all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, baking powder, salt, and, of course, crisp apples. I prefer to use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for the perfect blend of tart and sweet. You’ll also need ground cinnamon and shredded coconut to complete the signature flavor.
Step-by-Step Apple Samoas Instructions
Preparing Your Apple Samoas
Making these Apple Samoas is surprisingly easy, and the end result is well worth the effort. The total time to prepare and bake these delectable treats is about an hour and a half, but the hands-on time is just under an hour. You’ll need a rolling pin, a sharp knife, a mixing bowl, and a baking sheet to get started.
1- Begin by preparing the pastry dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingertips to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2- Gradually add the beaten eggs, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3- While the dough is chilling, peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. In a saucepan, cook the apples with a bit of sugar and cinnamon over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
4- Preheat your oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or biscuit cutter to cut out circles.
5- Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal them tightly.
6- Arrange the Apple Samoas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Apple Samoas turn out perfectly, be sure to chill the dough well before rolling and shaping. This helps the pastry stay flaky and tender. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor combination. And don’t skip the toasted coconut – it really takes these Apple Samoas to the next level.
Serving and Storing Your Apple Samoas
Perfect Pairings for Apple Samoas
These Apple Samoas are the perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of coffee or tea, and they also make a delightful dessert or afternoon snack. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Apple Samoas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. You can also make the dough and filling in advance, then assemble and bake the Apple Samoas just before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Apple Samoas
Creative Apple Samoas Variations
While the classic Apple Samoas are simply divine, you can also experiment with different flavor combinations. Try swapping out the apples for pears or even a mix of berries. You could also add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to the filling. For a seasonal twist, consider using pumpkin or sweet potatoes instead of apples.
Making Apple Samoas Diet-Friendly
To make these Apple Samoas gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use a plant-based butter and omit the eggs, replacing them with a flax or chia egg. And for a low-carb take, swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or coconut flour, and use a sugar-free sweetener in place of the granulated sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While I prefer the balance of tart and sweet that Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provide, you can experiment with other varieties, such as Fuji, Gala, or even a mix of apples. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling to account for the sweetness or tartness of your chosen apples.
Q: How long do the Apple Samoas take to bake?
A: The Apple Samoas should bake for 20-25 minutes in a 375°F oven, until the pastry is golden brown. Keep an eye on them and adjust the baking time as needed, as oven temperatures can vary.
Q: Can I make the Apple Samoas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days in advance. The apple filling can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the Apple Samoas and follow the baking instructions.
Q: How should I store the leftover Apple Samoas?
A: Leftover Apple Samoas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Q: What can I do if the pastry doesn’t seem to be flaky enough?
A: If the pastry isn’t as flaky as you’d like, try chilling the dough for longer before rolling and shaping. You can also experiment with different brands or types of butter, as the fat content can impact the flakiness. Additionally, be sure not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tougher texture.
Apple Samoas
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of apples, caramel, and coconut with these easy-to-make Apple Samoas – a delightful twist on a classic cookie!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups peeled, diced apples
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. – In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. – Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. – In a small saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the mixture is thickened, about 10 minutes.
7. – Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. – Make a small indent in the center of each dough ball and fill with a teaspoon of the apple mixture.
9. – Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
10. – Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the shredded coconut over the tops of the cookies.
11. – Allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For best results, use a firm, tart apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Snacks & Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Apple Samoas are a true comfort food classic, and this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. With its buttery, flaky pastry and sweet, spiced apple filling, it’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re reminiscing about your grandma’s homemade Apple Samoas or looking to create new memories in the kitchen, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Let me know in the comments how your Apple Samoas turn out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!