German-Filled Hoernchen

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup cold water
• 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts
• 1/2 cup diced apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the water, stirring with a fork until the dough forms a ball.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles. Place 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese in the center of each circle. In a small bowl, combine the nuts, apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well and spoon 1 teaspoon of the mixture onto the cream cheese on each circle.
4. Fold the dough circles in half, pressing the edges together to seal. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts

• Hoernchen, which means "little horns" in German, is an old-fashioned pastry that has been around since the 1800s.
• Hoernchen can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including various fruits, nuts, and cheeses.
• These pastries are a popular treat in Germany and other parts of Europe, and are especially popular during the Christmas season.