Apple Cheddar Bundles

Golden, flaky, and filled with the irresistible combo of sweet apples and sharp cheddar, these Apple Cheddar Bundles are the perfect blend of cozy and sophisticated. Imagine warm, caramelized apples tucked inside buttery puff pastry with melty cheese that hits all the right notes — savory, sweet, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just craving something special with your coffee, these bundles are guaranteed to impress without the fuss.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and Savory Harmony – Crisp apples and sharp cheddar create the ultimate flavor balance.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal as an appetizer, brunch pastry, or elegant dessert twist.
• Quick & Easy – Made with frozen puff pastry for effortless assembly.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A unique flavor combo that always sparks compliments.
• Beautiful Presentation – The golden layers and honey drizzle make them as stunning as they are delicious.

These Apple Cheddar Bundles stand out from the rest thanks to their perfect texture contrast — flaky pastry, tender apples, and gooey cheese — plus a finishing touch of thyme and honey that makes them unforgettable.

Ingredients Needed

For the Bundles

• 2 medium Honeycrisp apples (about 1¼ lb.), cored and sliced thin (about ⅛-inch thick)
• Zest of 1 lemon – adds brightness to balance the richness
• 6 tablespoons honey, divided – for sweetening and drizzling
• 1 (17.3 oz.) package frozen puff pastry, thawed but chilled
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)
• 1 (8 oz.) block sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1½ teaspoons flaky sea salt, for finishing

For Topping

• ¼ cup chopped roasted pecans – for crunch and nutty flavor
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – adds a subtle herby note

How to Make Apple Cheddar Bundles

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium mixing bowl, toss together apple slices, lemon zest, and 4 tablespoons of honey until the apples are evenly coated. This light honey glaze helps the apples caramelize beautifully while baking.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastry

Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut each into four 4½-inch squares (you’ll have 8 in total).
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for your egg wash.
Brush the outer edges of each square lightly with the egg wash. Rotate each square so one corner points toward you (like a diamond).

Place 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar near the bottom corner, then layer about 10 to 11 apple slices over it. Add another tablespoon of cheddar over and beside the apples for an even melt.

Fold the left side over the center and press gently to seal, then repeat with the right side. Brush the tops and edges with egg wash and sprinkle with a touch of flaky sea salt for flavor and shine.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the pastries evenly on the prepared baking sheets, four per tray.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, rotating trays halfway through, until the pastry is puffed, golden, and crisp around the edges.
Allow them to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Drizzle the warm bundles with the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey.
Top each with a sprinkle of roasted pecans and fresh thyme leaves for a gourmet finish.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve warm as an appetizer, light brunch pastry, or sweet-savory dessert. They pair wonderfully with cider, coffee, or even sparkling wine.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to re-crisp the pastry — avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky texture.

Helpful Notes

• Cheese Tip: Extra-sharp cheddar adds a deeper flavor, but mild or white cheddar also works well.
• Apple Options: Honeycrisp gives the best texture, but you can also use Gala, Pink Lady, or Fuji apples.
• Add a Twist: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of hot honey for a subtle kick.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the bundles up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate before baking — perfect for easy entertaining.

Conclusion

These Apple Cheddar Bundles are the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and buttery — a treat that feels indulgent yet approachable. The contrast of crisp pastry, warm apples, and gooey cheese makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for brunch, a fall party, or just a cozy weekend treat, this recipe will win everyone over.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating below — I’d love to hear how yours turned out!
And don’t forget to share your Apple Cheddar Bundles on Pinterest or Facebook — what twist will you try next?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! While Honeycrisp works best for its sweetness and firmness, you can substitute with Pink Lady, Fuji, or Gala. Avoid overly soft varieties like Red Delicious, as they tend to turn mushy.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the bundles and refrigerate them (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Brush with egg wash and bake just before serving.

Are Apple Cheddar Bundles freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze unbaked bundles on a tray until solid, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly and gives a richer flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a high-quality gluten-free puff pastry (available in many grocery stores) and follow the same instructions.