Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Pastry brush
- Fork
Step-by-Step Instructions
I always start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, I get the apple filling ready. In a skillet over medium heat, I melt the tablespoon of butter. Once it’s foamy, I add the finely diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and that all-important pinch of salt. I stir this constantly for about 5-7 minutes, just until the apples have softened slightly but still have a bit of bite, and the sugar has created a lovely, spiced syrup. I then take the skillet off the heat and let this mixture cool completely. This cooling step is crucial—if the apples are hot, they’ll melt the dough and make it impossible to work with.
While the apples cool, I unroll the crescent dough. I found the perforated triangles can make for uneven bombs, so I like to press the seams together and roll the dough out slightly with a rolling pin into one large rectangle. Then, I use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut it into 8 equal squares. Now for the fun assembly! I place a square of dough in my hand and spoon about a tablespoon and a half of the cooled apple mixture into the center. Then, I press one and a half caramel candies right into the middle of the apples. The caramels are the hidden treasure.
The sealing is the most important part. I gather the corners of the dough square up and over the filling, then pinch all the seams together tightly to form a sealed ball. I make sure there are no gaps or apple bits poking out, or caramel will leak everywhere in the oven. I place each sealed bomb seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, I mix the heavy cream with a drop of water to make an egg wash substitute, then lightly brush it over the top of each bomb. This gives them that beautiful, golden-brown shine. I sprinkle each one with a little coarse sugar for a delightful crunch.(See the next page below to continue…)