There's something enchanting about the combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and flaky pastry that instantly transports me to my grandmother's kitchen, where the aroma of her famous Apple Turnovers would fill the air. These sweet treats not only satisfy a craving for comfort food, but they also allow you to embrace the joy of homemade cooking without any fuss.
When I found myself yearning for a delectable dessert after a long day, I rummaged through my pantry and rediscovered a sheet of puff pastry tucked away. Suddenly, the idea of whipping up these delightful turnovers struck me! With just a few simple ingredients—Granny Smith apples, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon—I realized I could create a dessert that feels like a warm hug.
These Apple Turnovers are not just easy to make; they are versatile enough to serve as a brunch delight or an evening snack. So, grab your apron, and let’s bring some warmth and sweetness into your kitchen with this simple yet impressive recipe!
Why You'll Love This Apple Turnovers
- These Apple Turnovers are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
- The delightful combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore.
- Their versatility means you can enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or even a charming afternoon snack.
- With their golden, flaky crust and beautifully presented shape, these turnovers are sure to impress any crowd.
Apple Turnovers Ingredients
Get ready to indulge in these delightful treats!
For the Filling
- Granny Smith apples – perfect for their tartness that balances the sweetness of sugar.
- Granulated sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness to the filling.
- Cinnamon – gives a warm, cozy flavor that makes these Apple Turnovers truly comforting.
For the Pastry
- Puff pastry – creates the flaky, buttery exterior that envelopes the delicious filling.
- Butter (melted) – adds a golden sheen and extra flavor to the pastry.
- Egg (for egg wash) – gives the turnovers a beautiful, shiny finish when baked.
Embrace the joy of homemade Apple Turnovers with these simple ingredients!
How to Make Apple Turnovers
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it's heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
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Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine your chopped Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Stir gently until each piece of apple is well-coated, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.
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Prepare Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry. Cut it into 5-inch squares, ensuring they’re evenly shaped to hold your delicious filling.
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Assemble Turnovers: Place a generous spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold them diagonally, forming triangular pockets, and seal the edges with a fork to keep all that yummy filling inside.
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Add Shine: Brush the tops of your turnovers with melted butter, followed by an egg wash. This step not only adds flavor but gives your pastries a lovely golden-brown finish when baked.
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Bake Until Golden: Place the assembled turnovers on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn a beautiful golden brown—your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly aroma!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Turnovers
Room Temperature: Once baked, allow the Apple Turnovers to cool completely before storing them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store cooled turnovers in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay good for about a week. Make sure they are covered tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each Apple Turnover individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Turnovers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prep the filling (chopped apples mixed with sugar and cinnamon) up to 24 hours in advance, just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the puff pastry squares can be cut and stored in the refrigerator, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble your turnovers and brush them with melted butter and egg wash before popping them in the oven. This way, you'll enjoy homemade Apple Turnovers that are just as delicious and golden, with minimal effort on your part!
What to Serve with Apple Turnovers?
Creating a delightful dining experience doesn't stop with these sweet pastries; let your taste buds travel through complementary flavors and textures!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, rich charm of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop warm turnovers, creating a blissful contrast.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the turnovers adds a sweet, sticky dimension that enhances each luscious bite.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream offers a fluffy balance to the flaky texture of the turnovers, making each mouthful delightful.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar brings an extra layer of sweetness and flavor, enhancing the apple and cinnamon notes.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully, bringing out the warmth of the spices and comforting flavors.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing fruit salad with berries and oranges can cut through the richness while adding a pop of color to your spread.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider can echo the cozy flavors, making for a perfectly inviting fall treat experience.
These accompaniments will transform your Apple Turnovers into a memorable treat for family and friends!
Apple Turnovers Variations
Embrace the adventure of customizing your Apple Turnovers for a unique twist that’ll tickle your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It brings a beautiful texture contrast that elevates your turnovers.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon juice or orange zest into the apple mixture for a fresh, zesty kick that beautifully brightens the sweet apples. This adds a refreshing layer to the familiar flavors.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a dairy-free pastry option. This alternative still provides a flaky crust while accommodating dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
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Spicy Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger into the apple filling for invigorating heat. The spicy notes will surprise your palate, giving a new dimension to your turnovers.
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Berry Boost: Mix in a handful of blueberries or raspberries with the apples for a burst of fruity sweetness. The berries not only add color but also complement the tartness of Granny Smith apples wonderfully.
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Caramel Drizzle: Before sealing the turnovers, add a teaspoon of caramel sauce to the filling. Once baked, this ooey-gooey surprise will melt in your mouth, taking your dessert experience to another level.
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Chocolate Surprise: Fold in chocolate chips with the apples for a decadent, sweet treat. With each bite, you’ll discover the perfect balance of fruitiness and rich chocolate flavor.
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Savory Option: For a fun twist, try a savory filling using sautéed apples with cheese and herbs. It’s a unique take that’s perfect for brunch or as an appetizer for gatherings.
Feel free to experiment and make these Apple Turnovers your own!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Apple Turnovers, be sure to peel and chop your Granny Smith apples into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- A common mistake is overfilling the pastry, which can cause them to burst during baking, so stick to a spoonful of filling.
- For a perfectly flaky texture, avoid overworking the puff pastry when rolling it out.
- Remember to bake the turnovers at 400°F for the first 20 minutes to achieve that golden-brown color, then check for doneness as ovens may vary.
Apple Turnovers Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for Apple Turnovers?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are my go-to for these turnovers because their tartness balances the sweetness of sugar perfectly. You could also try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples if you prefer a slightly sweeter filling, but the texture and flavor of Granny Smith truly shine in this recipe.
How should I store leftover Apple Turnovers?
Once baked, allow the Apple Turnovers to cool completely before storing them. For room temperature storage, keep them in an airtight container where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place cooled turnovers in the refrigerator. They can be kept tightly covered for about a week without drying out.
Can I freeze Apple Turnovers?
Yes! To freeze your Apple Turnovers, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy.
What can I do if my pastry is too sticky while rolling it out?
Very common! If your puff pastry feels sticky, lightly dust your work surface and the pastry itself with flour as you roll it out. This will help you maintain a good texture without overworking the dough. Remember, the goal is a flaky crust, so treat it gently!
Are Apple Turnovers safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in Apple Turnovers, like apples and sugar, are safe for humans, they are not ideal for pets. Both sugar and butter can be harmful in excess to dogs and cats. If you want to share, I recommend giving your furry friend just a slice of a plain apple without any added ingredients instead. Always check with your vet for specific dietary concerns.
Apple Turnovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the chopped Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon in a mixing bowl.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into 5-inch squares.
- Spoon a generous amount of apple mixture onto each pastry square, fold diagonally, and seal edges with a fork.
- Brush the turnovers with melted butter and egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
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