Description

This Apple Mille-Feuille with Vanilla Custard is a delightful gluten-free dessert featuring layers of crisp puff pastry, caramelized apples, and creamy vanilla custard. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this elegant treat combines textures and flavors in every bite, making it an ideal dessert for special occasions or a comforting sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

Pastry Layers

1 sheet gluten-free puff pastry, thawed (store-bought or homemade)

Apple Filling

3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Vanilla Custard

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

Powdered sugar for dusting
Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Gluten-Free Pastry Layers: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the gluten-free puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into even rectangles approximately 2 by 4 inches. Place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden and crisp. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Prepare the Apple Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the thinly sliced apples along with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook the mixture until the apples soften and caramelize, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the apples cool.
Make the Vanilla Custard: Heat 2 cups of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return this combined mixture to the saucepan and cook it over low heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and allow it to cool.
Assemble the Mille-Feuille: Place one pastry rectangle on a serving plate. Spread a spoonful of the cooled vanilla custard over it, then layer with a portion of the caramelized apples. Repeat this layering process with another pastry piece, custard, and apples, finishing by placing the last pastry piece on top.
Garnish and Serve: Dust the assembled mille-feuille with powdered sugar and, if desired, drizzle with caramel sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and creamy fillings at their best.

Notes

For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness.
Ensure the puff pastry is fully cooled before assembling to maintain crispiness.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter accordingly, but the texture may vary.
Make the vanilla custard ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator to speed up assembly.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator; however, the pastry may lose its crispness.