Desserts > Japanese

Apple Manjū Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup finely chopped apples
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Special equipment needed:
- Manjū mold (can be found online or at Asian grocery stores)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease the manjū mold with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. In a separate bowl, mix chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small circle.
6. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle.
7. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside.
8. Place each filled dough ball into the manjū mold.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before removing from the mold.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
12 manjū

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 190
Total fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 13g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Margarine can be used instead of unsalted butter.
- Any type of milk can be used instead of regular milk.

Variations:
- Instead of apples, try using other fruits such as peaches or blueberries.
- Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the filling for added crunch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to grease the manjū mold well to prevent sticking.
- Don't overfill the dough with the filling or it may burst open during baking.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk. If it's too wet, add a little more flour.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warm.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the manjū on a plate and dust with powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Enjoy as a dessert or snack on its own.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the manjū sticks to the mold, try greasing it more thoroughly next time.
- If the filling leaks out during baking, try using less filling or sealing the dough more tightly.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before and after handling raw ingredients.

Food history:
Manjū is a traditional Japanese sweet that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically filled with sweet bean paste, but this recipe puts a twist on the classic by using apples.

Flavor profiles:
The combination of sweet dough and cinnamon-spiced apples creates a warm and comforting flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or snack with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Sweet, Savory, Nutty, Buttery