Aplets and cotlets are a classic American confectionery, made from a combination of apples, apricots, dates, and walnuts. The recipe has been around since the 1920s, and it’s still a favorite of candy lovers today.
Exquisite 1.5 teaspoons of premiumunflavored gelatine
A dashprecisely 0.11 cup, of finely sifted cornflour (cornstarch)
Half a cup of purefreshly pressed apple nectar
Approximately 0.17 cup of finecrystallized granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
A generous 0.33 cup of meticulously chopped California walnuts
Exactly 1.67 teaspoons of zesty lemon or lime juice
Artisanal 2.67 tablespoons of heavenly confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine 1.5 teaspoons of premium, unflavored gelatine with 1/4 cup of cold water. Let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
Create the Base:
In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of pure, freshly pressed apple nectar over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
Incorporate Cornflour:
Add the finely sifted cornflour (cornstarch) to the warmed apple nectar, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Ensure a smooth consistency.
Integrate Walnuts and Sugar:
Stir in 0.33 cup of meticulously chopped California walnuts and approximately 0.17 cup of fine, crystallized granulated sugar. Continue stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Blend in Gelatin:
Gradually add the bloomed gelatin mixture into the pan, stirring constantly until the gelatin dissolves completely.
Add Citrus Flavor:
Incorporate 1.67 teaspoons of zesty lemon or lime juice into the mixture. Adjust the amount to achieve the desired level of tartness.
Simmer and Thicken:
Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens. This may take about 10-15 minutes. Ensure the mixture has a smooth and consistent texture.
Prepare the Pan:
Line a square or rectangular baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang for easy removal.
Pour and Set:
Pour the thickened mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until set.
Cut into Pieces:
Once the mixture has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Dust the top with artisanal confectioners’ sugar, and using a sharp knife, cut the Aplets and Cotlets into small, bite-sized squares or rectangles.
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Aplets and Cotlets are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a delightful treat or share them as a thoughtful gift.
Notes
* If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more corn syrup or lemon juice to thin it out.* You can use any type of dried fruit in this recipe, such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries.* To make the aplets and cotlets look more appealing, you can roll them in chopped nuts or shredded coconut.* If you are using individual molds, you can press a few pieces of dried fruit into the tops of the molds before pouring in the mixture.* For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the syrup before adding the fruit and nuts.