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Apple Mille-Feuille with Vanilla Custard (Gluten-Free)

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This Apple Mille-Feuille with Vanilla Custard is a luxurious gluten-free dessert with layers of caramelized apples and rich vanilla custard. It combines the sweetness of apples with velvety custard and a crispy texture, making it a standout at any gathering.

Ingredients

150 g granulated sugar (for caramel)

2 kg apples (Fuji, Royal Gala, or Pink Lady)

150 g granulated sugar (for apples)

1 tsp salt

1 tbsp cornstarch

4 egg yolks

2 tbsp cornstarch (for custard)

600 ml milk (whole, skimmed, lactose-free, or vegetable)

50 g granulated sugar (for custard)

1/4 tsp salt (for custard)

2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or 1 vanilla pod or 1 tsp vanilla extract)

Instructions

  1. For the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, place 150g of sugar. Stir occasionally until it melts and turns golden brown. Once melted and amber in color, remove from heat and set aside.
  2. For the apple mille-feuille: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set aside. In a large skillet or pan, heat 150g of sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and forms a golden caramel. Add the sliced apples to the pan and toss them in the caramel. Cook for about 10 minutes until the apples are softened and lightly caramelized. In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water and stir it into the caramelized apples. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. For the vanilla custard: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add vanilla bean paste, seeds, or extract (or vanilla pod if using). In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. If you used a vanilla pod, remove it from the custard.
  4. Assembling the mille-feuille: Once the components are ready, layer the caramelized apples, custard, and additional apple slices in individual serving glasses or a large dish, just like assembling a mille-feuille. Start with a layer of caramelized apples, followed by a layer of custard. Continue layering until all ingredients are used. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This dessert can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the layers and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.

If you want a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk and ensure the custard thickens properly with the chosen milk.

The caramel can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

If you don’t have a vanilla pod, vanilla extract or paste works well.

For extra texture, you can add chopped nuts between the layers, such as almonds or hazelnuts.

For an egg-free version, substitute the egg yolks with a cornstarch-based egg replacer or silken tofu mixture for a vegan custard.

While this dessert is best served chilled, you can serve it slightly warm if preferred.

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