Apple Turnover Recipe: Who doesn’t love a flaky, buttery apple turnover? Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast or a warm, cozy dessert, apple turnovers always hit the spot. These handheld pastries are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making apple turnovers from scratch. From selecting the right apples to sealing the perfect pastry pocket, this recipe is designed for beginners and experienced bakers alike. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
What is an Apple Turnover?
An apple turnover is a type of pastry filled with spiced apple mixture, folded into a triangular or rectangular shape, and baked until golden brown. They are often made using puff pastry, which creates a light, flaky texture.
The beauty of turnovers lies in their versatility. They can be sweet or savory, served warm or cold, and customized with various spices, glazes, or fillings. Apple turnovers, in particular, are popular for their rich flavor and comforting aroma, making them perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed for Apple Turnovers
Main Ingredients:
- Puff Pastry Sheets – 2 sheets (thawed if frozen)
- Apples – 3–4 medium-sized (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp preferred)
- Brown Sugar – 1/3 cup
- Granulated Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon (for thickening)
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (to prevent browning)
- Egg – 1 (for egg wash)
- Butter – 1 tablespoon (unsalted)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon for added depth.
- Raisins or Chopped Nuts – 1/4 cup if you prefer extra texture.
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzle for a rich, sweet finish.
Tools and Equipment Required
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife or apple peeler
- Rolling pin (if making homemade dough)
- Pastry brush for egg wash
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Fork for crimping edges
- Oven or air fryer (for baking)
Step 1: Preparing the Apple Filling
Choosing the Best Apples
The key to a delicious filling starts with the right apples. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice because of their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the sugar. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also work well for a sweeter filling.
Chopping and Seasoning the Apples
- Peel and Core the Apples: Remove the skin and seeds for a smoother texture.
- Chop into Small Cubes: About 1/2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Season with Sugar and Spices: Toss the chopped apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
- Add Lemon Juice: Prevents browning and enhances flavor.
- Cook the Mixture: Heat the apples in a skillet with butter until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir frequently to avoid burning.
Let the filling cool completely before assembling the turnovers to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Step 2: Preparing the Dough
Using Store-Bought Puff Pastry vs. Homemade Dough
While store-bought puff pastry saves time, homemade dough provides a fresher, richer flavor. If you’re short on time, thaw pre-made puff pastry sheets in the refrigerator overnight.
Rolling and Cutting the Dough Properly
- Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Roll out the pastry sheets into squares or rectangles about 6×6 inches.
- Trim any uneven edges for a clean look.
For homemade dough:
- Combine flour, butter, salt, and ice water in a food processor.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out for best results.
Step 3: Assembling the Turnovers
Filling the Pastry Squares
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each pastry square.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage during baking.
Sealing and Crimping Edges for a Perfect Finish
- Fold the pastry diagonally to create a triangle shape.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges securely.
- Brush the top with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) for a golden finish.
- Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 4: Baking the Apple Turnovers
Preheating the Oven for Best Results
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Baking Time and Temperature Guidelines
- Arrange the turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 5: Adding the Final Touches
Glazing the Turnovers for Shine
- Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and drizzle the glaze over the turnovers after baking.
Sprinkling Sugar or Cinnamon for Extra Flavor
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm for a crunchy topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.
Storage Tips for Apple Turnovers
Storing at Room Temperature vs. Refrigeration
Apple turnovers can be stored at room temperature for 1–2 days if kept in an airtight container. However, if you live in a humid environment, it’s better to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.
- Room Temperature Storage: Place the turnovers in a container lined with parchment paper to absorb any moisture and keep the pastry crisp.
- Refrigerated Storage: Store turnovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to enjoy apple turnovers later, freezing is an excellent option:
- Freeze Before Baking:
- Assemble the turnovers but skip the baking step.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Freeze After Baking:
- Let baked turnovers cool completely.
- Wrap each turnover in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag.
Tip: Label the freezer bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating Instructions
Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, reheating apple turnovers ensures they taste as fresh as when first baked:
- Oven Method (Best for Crispness):
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place turnovers on a baking sheet and heat for 10–12 minutes if refrigerated or 15–20 minutes if frozen.
- Microwave Method (Quick Fix):
- Heat each turnover for 30–45 seconds on high, but note that the pastry may not stay as crispy.
- Air Fryer Method (Crisp and Quick):
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat the turnovers for 5–7 minutes for a crispy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Turnovers
Even experienced bakers can run into problems, so here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overfilling the Pastry: Too much filling can cause leaks during baking. Keep the filling portion small to maintain a neat shape.
- Not Sealing the Edges Properly: Use a fork to crimp edges tightly and prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: Egg wash adds a golden-brown finish. Skipping it may lead to pale, dull-looking turnovers.
- Using Warm Dough: Puff pastry should be cold when assembling the turnovers. Warm dough becomes sticky and hard to handle.
- Not Venting the Pastry: Always cut small slits on top of the turnovers to allow steam to escape. Without vents, the turnovers can burst open.
Nutritional Information of Apple Turnovers
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one apple turnover (standard size):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35–40 g |
| Sugars | 15–20 g |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 12–15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7–9 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
| Sodium | 150–200 mg |
Note: Values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
FAQs about Apple Turnover Recipe
1. What type of apples should I use for apple turnovers?
For the best apple turnovers, opt for firm, tart apples that hold their shape and provide a balance of sweetness and acidity. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice, but you can also try Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a slightly sweeter twist.
2. Can I use store-bought pastry dough?
Absolutely! Using store-bought puff pastry dough is a great time-saver and yields deliciously flaky turnovers. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before you start.
3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
To prevent leakage, avoid overfilling the turnovers. Seal the edges well by pressing them with a fork or pinching them together, and make small slits on top of each turnover to allow steam to escape.
4. Can apple turnovers be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare apple turnovers ahead of time. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator overnight, or freeze them for longer storage. If baking from frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. What is the best way to serve apple turnovers?
Apple turnovers are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust them with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Apple turnovers are the perfect combination of crispy, buttery pastry and sweet, spiced apple filling. Whether you’re preparing them for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack, this recipe ensures you’ll get professional-quality results at home.
By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the art of making apple turnovers that are not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious. From selecting the right apples to adding the final glaze, each step brings you closer to baking perfection.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the warm aroma of freshly baked apple turnovers filling your kitchen!
