Name: Gluten Free Apple Mille Feuille
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 sheets gluten-free puff pastry; 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative); 4 large egg yolks; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a showstopper with surprisingly accessible ingredients. It’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious homemade treat. The combination of flaky gluten-free pastry, smooth custard, and spiced apples makes it suitable for both special occasions and cozy evenings in. Plus, it’s gluten-free without compromising on texture or taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gluten-free puff pastry sheets
Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Granulated sugar
Whole milk
Egg yolks
Cornstarch
Vanilla extract
Salt
Powdered sugar (for dusting or icing)

Directions

Bake the puff pastry: Thaw and roll out the gluten-free puff pastry. Cut into equal rectangles and prick with a fork. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Cool completely.
Caramelize the apples: Peel and thinly slice the apples. In a skillet, melt butter, then add apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until soft and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
Make the pastry cream: In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Chill the cream completely.
Assemble the mille feuille: Layer one piece of baked puff pastry with pastry cream, then a layer of apples. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a final pastry layer.
Chill and finish: Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or a light glaze if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

Use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different fruit profile.
Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
Incorporate a thin layer of apricot jam between the layers for brightness.
Replace dairy with plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free version.
Top with chopped toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in an airtight container to prevent the pastry from softening too quickly. This dessert is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it may cause the pastry cream to separate and the pastry to become soggy.

FAQs

What is a mille feuille?

Mille feuille, meaning “a thousand leaves” in French, is a layered dessert typically made with puff pastry and pastry cream.

Is gluten-free puff pastry easy to find?

Yes, many stores carry it in the frozen section. Look for brands that offer certified gluten-free options.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a few hours in advance. Assemble close to serving time to keep the pastry crisp.

What kind of apples work best?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well and contrast nicely with the sweet pastry cream.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Cool the apples and cream before assembling, and serve shortly after chilling.

Can I use store-bought pastry cream?

Yes, you can use store-bought or pre-made pastry cream if you’re short on time.

How do I cut the mille feuille neatly?

Use a serrated knife and gently saw through the layers. Chilling the dessert before slicing helps maintain structure.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives, and choose a dairy-free puff pastry.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smooth texture, but you can leave the skin on for a more rustic look and added fiber.

Is this dessert freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing once assembled, as the textures can degrade. However, you can freeze the baked puff pastry separately.

Conclusion

Gluten Free Apple Mille Feuille is a stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is elegant. With crisp layers of pastry, rich pastry cream, and spiced apples, it’s a perfect blend of flavor and texture. Whether you’re catering to gluten-free diets or just looking for a sophisticated treat, this recipe delivers every time.