Apple Turnovers Recipe – Flaky, Buttery, and Packed with Spiced Apples
1. Introduction to the Recipe
Apple turnovers are the perfect marriage of buttery, flaky pastry and warm, spiced fruit filling. Each bite delivers the crunch of golden puff pastry followed by a soft, fragrant apple-cinnamon center. They’re not only visually stunning but also wonderfully versatile — perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family brunch or a festive holiday table, apple turnovers are a classic treat that never fails to impress.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bakery Quality at Home – Crisp, golden layers with a luscious filling.
- Quick and Easy – Uses store-bought puff pastry for less fuss and more flavor.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or even try different fruits.
- Make Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared ahead and baked fresh when needed.
- Crowd Pleaser – Everyone loves the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples.
3. Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Puff pastry sheets | 2 (thawed) | Buttery, flaky outer layer |
| Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) | 3 medium, peeled & diced | Sweet-tart filling |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetens the filling |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | Adds depth and caramel flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Warm spice for the filling |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | Thickens filling |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Prevents browning, adds brightness |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | Adds richness to filling |
| Egg | 1 (beaten) | Egg wash for golden crust |
| Powdered sugar (optional) | For dusting | Finishing touch |
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Apple Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir until apples soften (about 5–7 minutes). Mix cornstarch with 2 tsp water, then stir into apples to thicken. Let filling cool.
Step 2 – Prep the Puff Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares.
Step 3 – Fill and Seal
Place 1–2 tablespoons of apple filling in the center of each square. Fold into a triangle, sealing edges with a fork.
Step 4 – Add Egg Wash
Brush tops with beaten egg for a glossy golden finish.
Step 5 – Bake
Arrange turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
Step 6 – Cool and Serve
Cool for 5 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
5. Tips for the Best Results
- Use cold puff pastry for maximum flakiness.
- Don’t overfill — excess filling can leak during baking.
- Cool filling before assembling to avoid soggy pastry.
- For a richer flavor, sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking.
6. Variations to Try
- Apple-Pear Turnovers – Mix equal parts apple and pear for a delicate flavor.
- Caramel Apple Turnovers – Drizzle caramel sauce over filling before sealing.
- Savory Twist – Skip the sugar and try brie with apples for a gourmet appetizer.
7. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator – Store up to 4 days; reheat in the oven for crispness.
- Freezer – Freeze unbaked turnovers for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these with homemade puff pastry?
Yes, but it’s more time-consuming. Store-bought works beautifully.
Q: Which apples are best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness. A mix is ideal.
Q: Can I make them ahead?
Yes — assemble, freeze, and bake straight from frozen.
9. Nutrition Information (Per Turnover)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sugar | 16g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
10. Recipe Card
Apple Turnovers
Flaky puff pastry filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples — a bakery classic made easy at home.
Ingredients
- 2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 3 medium apples, peeled & diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 egg, beaten
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet, melt butter and add apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Mix cornstarch with 2 tsp water, stir in, and cook 1 minute to thicken. Cool filling.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out pastry and cut into 4 squares per sheet.
- Add 1–2 tbsp filling to center of each square, fold into triangles, and seal edges.
- Brush with egg wash.
- Bake 18–22 minutes until golden. Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar.