How do I shape the fox bites without a cookie cutter?

Use parchment paper to create a fox-shaped template and carefully cut the puff pastry using a sharp knife for consistent shapes.

Can I make these bites vegan-friendly?

Yes, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy milk wash instead of egg for brushing.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and an optional pinch of ground ginger or cloves add warm autumn notes to the fruit filling.

Ensure the filling is well-cooked and cooled before assembling to avoid excess moisture soaking into the pastry.

Pair with vanilla ice cream or a caramel dipping sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Whimsical, tender pastry bites filled with spiced apple and pear, shaped like playful foxes—perfect for autumn gatherings or a fun family treat.

This recipe always brings warmth to our family celebrations and the kids love the playful fox shapes.

Pastry: 2 sheets (about 500 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Filling: 2 medium apples peeled cored and diced, 1 ripe pear peeled cored and diced, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Decoration: 24 mini chocolate chips (for eyes), 12 small orange or red candy-coated chocolates (for noses)

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a medium skillet melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced apples and pear brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg and lemon juice. Sauté for 6 8 minutes stirring occasionally until fruit is softened and syrupy. Let cool slightly.
Step 3:: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Using a fox-shaped cookie cutter (or a template and a knife) cut out 24 fox shapes.
Step 4:: Place 12 fox shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of the fruit filling (about 1 tablespoon) into the center of each leaving a border around the edges.
Step 5:: Brush the edges with beaten egg. Top with the remaining 12 fox shapes. Press edges to seal using a fork if desired.
Step 6:: Brush tops with more egg wash. Add chocolate chips for eyes and a candy-coated chocolate for the nose gently pressing into the dough.
Step 7:: Bake for 16 18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 8:: Let cool slightly before serving.

This recipe is a favorite during cool autumn evenings when the family gathers to enjoy sweet seasonal treats.

Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra autumn warmth. Serve with vanilla ice cream or caramel dipping sauce.

Fox-shaped cookie cutter or sharp knife and template, Medium skillet, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Pastry brush

Contains wheat (gluten) egg and dairy (butter). Chocolate candies may contain soy and milk. Always check labels for allergen cross-contamination.

These fox-shaped bites add a charming touch to any autumn gathering and are simple to prepare.

→ How do I shape the fox bites without a cookie cutter?: Use parchment paper to create a fox-shaped template and carefully cut the puff pastry using a sharp knife for consistent shapes.
→ Can I make these bites vegan-friendly?: Yes, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy milk wash instead of egg for brushing.
→ What spices enhance the filling's autumn flavor?: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and an optional pinch of ground ginger or cloves add warm autumn notes to the fruit filling.
→ How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?: Ensure the filling is well-cooked and cooled before assembling to avoid excess moisture soaking into the pastry.
→ What can I serve alongside these bites?: Pair with vanilla ice cream or a caramel dipping sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.