1-Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures your tarts will have the ideal environment for perfect baking from the moment they go into the oven.

2-Prepare the lemon water by filling a large microwave-safe bowl halfway with water and adding the juice of ½ lemon. This acidulated water will prevent the apple slices from browning and help maintain their beautiful color.

3-Prepare the apples by cutting them in half lengthwise, removing the ends and core with minimal apple flesh loss. The goal is to preserve as much of the usable apple as possible while removing the inedible parts.

4-Slice the apples thinly, about 1/16 inch thick, using a sharp knife or mandoline. Consistent thickness is key to ensuring even cooking and easy shaping into roses.

5-Place apple slices into lemon water and microwave for 3 minutes until the slices become bendable. This step is crucial as it makes the apples flexible enough to shape without breaking.

6-Mix the cinnamon sugar by combining brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) in a small bowl while the apples are heating in the microwave.

7-Remove apple slices from water using a slotted spoon and pat them dry gently with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help prevent a soggy pastry.

8-Prepare the puff pastry by unfolding it and rolling to approximately 12 inches long. Cut into six strips about 2 inches wide each. Gently stretch each strip to about 18 inches long.

9-Add flavor to the pastry by sprinkling approximately 2/3 tablespoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly onto each strip.

10-Arrange apple slices overlapping halfway on the top half of each pastry strip. They should look like the petals of a flower starting to bloom.

11-Fold the bottom half of the pastry strip over the apple slices to secure them in place.

12-Roll each strip tightly starting from one end to form a rose shape. Once rolled, seal the end with a dab of water to prevent unraveling during baking.

13-Place rolls into a muffin tin that has been buttered, floured, sprayed, or lined with parchment paper. This recipe makes 12 tarts total, with 6 fitting per standard muffin tin.

14-Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on the tarts and adjust oven settings or rack position if needed to prevent the apple tops from burning while ensuring the pastry is fully baked.

15-Remove tarts quickly from the pan after baking to avoid sticking. Use a fork, chopstick, or knife to gently loosen the edges if necessary before transferring to a wire rack or plate.

16-Dust with powdered sugar if desired for a beautiful finishing touch. Use a sifter or sieve for the most even and light dusting.

17-Serve and enjoy! These tarts can be served alone or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. For more apple dessert ideas, check out our delicious apple spice crumb muffins recipe.