Introduction
Welcome to the world of deliciously flaky cruffins! These delightful treats combine the whimsical charm of a muffin and the flaky texture of puff pastry, creating a heavenly bite that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. With a sweet cinnamon sugar filling that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, cruffins are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Let’s dive into this fun baking adventure!
Ingredients
- 1 batch of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, for egg wash
- Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 cruffins
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick, allowing it to stretch beautifully.
- Brush the warm melted butter generously over the surface of the puff pastry, ensuring every little corner is covered.
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Sprinkle this delightful cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the buttered pastry, creating a sweet blanket of flavor.
- Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log, giving it that perfect cruffin shape. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces, each promising a burst of flavor.
- Take each piece and twist it lightly, adding a bit of whimsy before placing it upright into the muffin tin. Continue until all pieces are nestled snugly in the tin.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the cruffins for a beautiful golden finish. Be generous with a sprinkle of additional granulated sugar on top for that extra sweetness!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cruffins are golden brown and flaky, filling your space with an irresistible aroma.
- Once baked, allow the cruffins to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the anticipation as they cool!
Notes or Tips
For the flakiest results, make sure to handle the puff pastry as little as possible. If you want to experiment with flavors, feel free to add grated nutmeg or even a hint of vanilla to the cinnamon sugar mixture! These cruffins are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to revive their crispy goodness.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily relies on the technique of rolling and twisting the pastry to create layers, which is essential to achieving that signature flaky texture. Be patient while rolling your dough, as a thin, even layer will yield the best results. Remember to keep your work surface lightly floured to prevent sticking while you create these little marvels.
FAQ
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry will make these cruffins even more special. Just make sure it’s fully chilled before rolling it out.
What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
No worries! You can use a baking sheet and form the cruffins into rounds. Just ensure they are snug together to help them rise.
Can I add other fillings?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits along with the cinnamon sugar filling for a delightful twist.
Conclusion
There you have it—a recipe for cruffins that are not only simple to make but also burst with flavor and flaky goodness. These treats are bound to become a family favorite and a go-to for entertaining friends. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the joy of homemade flaky cruffins. Happy baking!