These protein-enriched apple turnovers blend classic French pastry techniques with modern nutrition-conscious ingredients. Dating back to the 17th century, turnovers evolved from portable hand pies into beloved breakfast and dessert pastries. I’ve enhanced the traditional recipe by incorporating protein-rich Greek yogurt and natural maple sweetness, creating a more nutritious yet equally indulgent treat.
Prep Time and Yields
- Preparation: 25 minutes
- Baking: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yields: 9 turnovers
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples (220g/8 oz), preferably Granny Smith
- ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (320g/11.3 oz), thawed
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Essential Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Wire cooling rack
Detailed Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Peel and core apples
- Cut into ¼-inch dice
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Diced apples
- Greek yogurt
- Maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
- Mix gently until well combined
- Refrigerate while preparing pastry
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper
- On lightly floured surface, roll pastry to 12×12 inch square
- Cut into nine 4-inch squares
- Whisk egg with water for egg wash
Step 3: Assemble Turnovers
- Place 2 tablespoons filling in center of each square
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage
- Brush edges with egg wash
- Fold diagonally to form triangles
- Press edges firmly with fork to seal
- Cut small vent holes in top
- Brush entire surface with egg wash
Step 4: Baking
- Place turnovers on prepared baking sheet
- Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown
- Rotate pan halfway through baking
- Watch edges carefully to prevent burning
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
- While baking, prepare glaze:
- Combine maple syrup and cinnamon
- Heat until slightly thickened
- Remove turnovers from oven
- Let cool 5 minutes
- Brush with warm maple-cinnamon glaze
- Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired
Storage and Serving
- Best served warm same day
- Store in airtight container:
- Room temperature: 2 days
- Refrigerated: 4 days
- Reheat in 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes
Nutrition Information
Per turnover:
- Calories: 265
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 21mg
- Sodium: 170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 6g
Pro Tips
- Keep pastry cold until ready to use
- Don’t skip the egg wash – it ensures golden brown color
- Let filling chill before assembly to prevent leakage
- Rotate baking sheet for even browning
- Cool slightly before glazing to prevent sogginess
These protein-enhanced apple turnovers offer a perfect balance of flaky pastry and creamy, spiced filling. The Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess while maintaining the classic turnover texture, creating a more satisfying and nutritious pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.