Kitchen Invaders Detoured

Apple-Cheddar Palmiers.

I often feel like a military commander in my kitchen, on the day of a holiday dinner party. Barking orders, protecting the sacred cargo, holding down the fort from invaders.  

My family strategically circles the kitchen until the meal is ready, slipping by the counter to snatch a stray slice of prime rib or an unwatched roll.

Over time, I've discovered pre-party snacks are the way to go. Munchies that are out of the kitchen, and out of my way, keep us all sane until the guests arrive and the meal is ready.

Is does take a little extra work, but I believe it's worth the effort! If you buy a few pre-made dips, then incorporate a couple quick homemade snacks, everyone is off the prowl until mealtime!

Apple Cheddar Palmiers are perfect for just such an occasion! They are quick to put together, and you can refrigerate or freeze until you are ready to use them. Then just slice and bake! They can even be baked ahead if you so desire, because they taste incredible at room temperature!

Sommer

Apple Cheddar Palmiers

2 Tb. butter
2 baking apples, peeled and diced
2 shallots, chopped
½ tsp. nutmeg
Salt and pepper
1 ½ cup sharp grated cheddar
2 sheets puff pastry (1 box)
1 egg

Preheat a skillet to medium-high. Saute the apples and shallots in butter for 3-5 minutes. Add the nutmeg and salt and pepper to taste.

Lay each piece of puff pastry on its own piece of parchment paper and roll them lightly.

Top both pieces with apple mixture and distribute evenly. Then top with them with shredded cheese.

 

Fold the pastry sheets inward ¼ of the width on both ends. Fold in again so that the dough meets in the middle. Fold one more time.

 

Wrap the rolls in the paper and put the rolls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill before cutting. (Wrap them well if you are prepping ahead).

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Carefully slice each roll into 12-15 ½ inch slices and lay flat on parchment paper lined baking sheets. Whisk the egg and brush it over the tops. Bake for 12-14 minutes.

Cool before lifting! Makes 24-30.

Make sure to subscribe and never miss a recipe! 

Asheville~ Here are some holiday events this weekend you should check out: 

The Biltmore Village Dickens Festival, December 3-5th

First Downtown Jingle-Fest, December 5th

The Big Crafty Holiday, December 5