Introduction
Apple turnovers are a classic, comforting pastry treat loved by many. With their crisp, flaky exterior and warm, spiced apple filling, they make the perfect dessert or snack for any time of day. Traditionally made with a rich, buttery puff pastry and a sweet apple mixture, turnovers offer a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall all year round. Not only are they delectable, but they are also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you're a novice baker or an experienced one, these apple turnovers with puff pastry will be a go-to recipe that everyone will enjoy. This recipe guides you through the steps to create perfectly golden, flaky pastries filled with tender apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pastry:
- 2 sheets of frozen puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to mix with the egg)
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel and slice the apples – Begin by peeling and coring the apples. Then, cut them into small bite-sized pieces (around 1/2-inch cubes). This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to fill the pastry.
Cook the apples – In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples have softened but still hold their shape.
Thicken the filling – In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry. Add this to the apple mixture and stir. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken. Once done, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool completely before using it in the turnovers.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Thaw the pastry – Puff pastry sheets come frozen, so you’ll need to thaw them according to the package instructions, which typically take about 30-40 minutes at room temperature.
Roll out the dough – Once thawed, lightly flour your work surface and roll out each puff pastry sheet. You want the pastry to be smooth but not too thin, as it needs to hold the filling. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (giving you a total of 8 turnovers).
Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers
Fill the pastry – Place about 2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the center of each pastry square, making sure not to overfill, as this will make it difficult to seal the edges.
Fold the pastry – Gently fold the pastry squares diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly together with a fork to seal them. This step is important to ensure the filling doesn't escape during baking.
Egg wash – In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the top of each turnover with the egg wash, which will give the pastry a beautiful golden color when baked.
Add sugar – For an extra crunch and sweetness, sprinkle coarse sugar on top of each turnover after applying the egg wash.
Step 4: Bake the Turnovers
Preheat the oven – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Bake – Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow the pastry to puff. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the turnovers are golden brown and the pastry is fully puffed. Keep an eye on them, as puff pastry can brown quickly towards the end.
Cool – Once baked, remove the turnovers from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
Make the glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk for a thinner glaze.
Drizzle – Once the turnovers have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the tops for an added layer of sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Turnovers
- Apple variety – Granny Smith apples are commonly used because of their tart flavor and firm texture, which holds up well during cooking. Honeycrisp is another excellent option if you prefer a slightly sweeter filling.
- Thawing puff pastry – It's crucial to let the puff pastry thaw but not become too soft. If the dough becomes too warm, it may not puff properly during baking. If necessary, you can place the prepared turnovers in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
- Sealing the edges – Ensure the edges are tightly sealed with a fork to avoid any leakage of the filling. You can also brush a bit of water around the edges before sealing to help them stick together.
- Make-ahead option – You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble the turnovers.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250-300
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 150mg
These values are approximate and will vary depending on the size of the turnovers and the specific ingredients used.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Apple turnovers are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh for longer, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 5 days. However, the pastry may lose some of its crispness after a day or two.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked turnovers for up to 2 months. Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time (no need to thaw).
Reheating: To reheat apple turnovers, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of the crispness to the pastry. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Apple turnovers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options:
- Warm: Serve warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Cold: They can also be served at room temperature, making them an ideal addition to a breakfast spread or afternoon snack.
- With caramel: For an extra special treat, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Conclusion
Apple turnovers are a delightful pastry that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tart apples with a flaky, buttery crust. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed as a breakfast treat with coffee, they are sure to be a hit. This recipe simplifies the process by using store-bought puff pastry, ensuring you get all the deliciousness of homemade turnovers without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy these warm, golden apple turnovers fresh out of the oven. So, whether you're baking for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend treat, these turnovers will leave you craving more!