Apple turnovers are a beloved pastry treat, known for their flaky, buttery crust and warm, spiced apple filling. Originating in Europe, these pastries have become a staple in bakeries and homes around the world, perfect for a cozy breakfast, a dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating delicious, golden apple turnovers that are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Makes 6 turnovers
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
- 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Note: You can use store-bought puff pastry to save time, but ensure it’s properly thawed for easier handling. Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your turnovers will bake evenly, giving them a crispy, golden finish.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
In a medium-sized pan, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir to combine the ingredients. Let the apples cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft and tender, but not mushy. The mixture should have a sweet, spiced aroma. Remove the pan from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly while you prepare the pastry.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Unroll or unfold the puff pastry sheets, ensuring they are smooth and even. Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, slice each sheet into equal-sized squares, approximately 5 inches (13 cm) on each side. You should be able to get about 6 squares from 2 sheets of puff pastry.
4. Fill the Pastry Squares
Once your apple filling has cooled slightly, spoon a generous tablespoon of the mixture onto the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill them, as this could cause the turnovers to burst open during baking.
5. Fold and Seal the Turnovers
Carefully fold each square into a triangle, bringing one corner over to meet the opposite corner. Press down the edges gently, then use the tines of a fork to crimp and seal the edges of each turnover. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking. If desired, use a small knife to make a couple of slits on the top of each turnover for steam to escape, which will also help the pastry bake evenly.
6. Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the tops of each turnover with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful, glossy finish and enhance their golden color as they bake.
7. Bake the Turnovers
Place the turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for expansion. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the turnovers are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the turnovers from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm for the best experience, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. These turnovers are also delicious at room temperature.
Nutrition Information (per turnover)
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g
Tips for the Best Apple Turnovers
- Puff Pastry: Ensure the pastry is cold when working with it, as warm pastry becomes difficult to handle and may not puff up properly during baking.
- Apple Variety: Feel free to mix apple varieties to add complexity to the flavor. Combining tart and sweet apples can create a perfect balance.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
With their irresistible combination of a flaky crust and a rich, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, these apple turnovers are sure to be a hit. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this classic recipe will always deliver a comforting, homemade treat.
