Apple Roses are a stunning dessert that looks bakery-level fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
These delicate apple rose pastries are made with thinly sliced apples, flaky puff pastry, and warm cinnamon sugar — perfect for holidays, brunch, or romantic occasions.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make apple roses that are crispy, golden, and absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Roses Recipe
- Made with simple ingredients
- Ready in under 45 minutes
- Perfect for desserts, parties, or holidays
- Uses store-bought puff pastry for ease
- Naturally beautiful presentation

Ingredients for Apple Roses
- 2 large red apples (Honeycrisp or Gala work best)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 3 tablespoons apricot jam (or apple jelly)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash apples and slice them very thinly, keeping the peel on for color.
- Place apple slices in a microwave-safe bowl with lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of water.
- Microwave for 2–3 minutes until slices are pliable but not mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into 6 long strips, about 2 inches wide.
- Warm the apricot jam slightly and spread a thin layer along each strip.
Step 3: Assemble the Apple Roses
- Overlap apple slices along the top edge of each pastry strip, peel side up.
- Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar evenly over the apples.
- Fold the bottom half of the pastry over the apples.
- Roll tightly from one end to the other to form a rose shape.
Step 4: Bake the Apple Roses
- Place each rose into a lightly greased muffin tin.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until pastry is golden brown.
- If apples brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
- Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar
- Serve warm or at room temperature
- Optional: drizzle with honey or caramel sauce
Best Apples for Apple Roses
For best results, use:
- Honeycrisp
- Gala
- Pink Lady
- Fuji
Tips for Perfect Apple Roses Every Time
- Slice apples paper-thin for easy rolling
- Don’t overfill pastry strips
- Use red-skinned apples for dramatic contrast
- Bake in a muffin tin to maintain shape
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make apple roses ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until baking.
Can I freeze apple roses?
Yes, freeze unbaked roses and bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Apple roses pair beautifully with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Hot coffee or tea
- Holiday dessert spreads
Final Thoughts
This easy apple roses recipe is proof that elegant desserts don’t have to be complicated.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is stunning.
If you’re looking for a show-stopping apple dessert, these puff pastry apple roses will never disappoint.