If you are looking for a delightful treat that brings together flaky, buttery pastry and warm, cinnamon-kissed apples, the Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and tender apple filling wrapped in beautifully golden puff pastry that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a cozy breakfast, an irresistible dessert, or a special snack, these turnovers are sure to impress with incredible texture, inviting aroma, and a simplicity that makes it accessible to all skill levels. Let me take you through every step to create these mouthwatering treats that will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where the magic begins. Each element in this Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe plays an important role in delivering a burst of flavor and perfect flakiness, while keeping preparation effortless and fun.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, cut into 9 slices): Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps keep the apple filling tender and luscious.
- Apples (2 cups, cored and cut into small pieces): The star of the show – fresh apples give natural sweetness and a lovely texture.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup, packed): Offers a deep caramel-like sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.
- Puff pastry (1 sheet, frozen and thawed, cut into 8 equal squares): Creates the signature flaky and golden layers that make these turnovers irresistible.
- Egg (1 large, for egg wash with 1 teaspoon of water): Gives the pastry a gorgeous golden finish and helps the coarse sugar adhere.
- Coarse sugar (¼ cup, for topping): Adds a delicate crunch and sparkling visual appeal on top of the baked turnovers.
How to Make Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by heating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready when those turnovers are assembled. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make clean-up a breeze. This simple first step sets you up for a smooth baking experience and beautifully cooked pastry.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core the apples and slice each into quarters before chopping into small, bite-sized chunks. This size allows the apples to cook evenly inside the pastry without becoming too mushy or overly chunky when you bite into the turnover. Tossing the apples with brown sugar right after chopping will give them time to soften slightly, soaking up the sweet, caramel tones.
Step 3: Cut and Fill the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a well-floured surface to prevent sticking, then carefully cut it into 9 equal squares. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each square, then add a slice of butter atop the apples along with about a teaspoon of brown sugar. The butter melts into the apples while baking, enriching the flavor and keeping the filling deliciously moist.
Step 4: Fold and Seal the Turnovers
Brush one edge of each pastry square lightly with the egg wash. Then fold the pastry over, forming a triangle that encloses the filling. Sealing the edges by pressing down with a fork not only prevents any filling from leaking out but also creates those classic decorative ridges, which just scream homemade charm. Brush the tops generously with egg wash, cut a few small venting slits, and sprinkle with coarse sugar for that extra sparkle and crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your turnovers onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 17 minutes or until the puff pastry has puffed beautifully and turned a rich golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool for at least 5 minutes. This step is crucial to let the filling set and not burn your mouth. Served warm, they’re plain irresistible, and just waiting for a scoop of vanilla ice cream to top the experience off.
How to Serve Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
Add a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look or drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a splash of apple juice or lemon for a tangy finish. Fresh cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder can amplify those comforting apple pie vibes.
Side Dishes
Pair your turnovers with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to make them extra decadent. A dollop of whipped cream or a side of warm caramel sauce is perfect for dipping and adds a luscious layer of flavor to this already delightful treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch or dessert table, serve these turnovers on a wooden board decorated with fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and fall leaves. Plating each turnover with a small ramekin of caramel or crème fraîche adds an elegant touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover apple turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them covered helps maintain the puff pastry’s flakiness without it going stale too quickly. If your kitchen is warm, consider refrigeration, but bring them to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
This Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe freezes very well. Place unbaked turnovers on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen by adding a few minutes to the baking time—this way, you can enjoy fresh turnovers anytime you crave them.
Reheating
Reheat leftover turnovers in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes to restore that flaky texture and warm the apple filling without making the pastry soggy. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can soften the layers and take away the signature crispness.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice tangy contrast, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp offer a mellow flavor. Using a mix can give you a nuanced filling that’s both sweet and slightly tart.
What can I substitute for puff pastry if I don’t have any?
You can try using phyllo dough for a lighter, crunchier texture, though it will be less buttery and flaky. Pie crust dough is another option but expect a denser turnover. Puff pastry gives the best signature flakiness and rise.
Is it okay to prepare the turnovers ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the turnovers and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. Baking fresh results in the best texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy with the apple filling?
Small apple pieces and adding a slice of cold butter on top of the filling helps create steam barriers as they bake. Also, folding the pastry tightly and baking immediately after assembly helps keep the pastry crisp.
Can these turnovers be made vegan?
Yes! Use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. For the egg wash, gently brush the pastry with a mixture of maple syrup and plant milk or aquafaba to achieve a similar golden finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about baking Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe from scratch. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both special and comfortably familiar—perfect for cozy mornings, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want to treat yourself. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own, enjoying every flaky, buttery, apple-filled bite that’s bound to bring smiles and happy memories around your table.
Print
Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious homemade Apple Turnovers made with flaky puff pastry, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a crunchy coarse sugar topping. These easy-to-make pastries are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups apples, cored and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 9 equal slices
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, frozen, thawed and cut into 9 equal squares
Egg Wash & Topping
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon water
- 1/4 cup coarse sugar, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Apples: Core the apples, then slice them into quarters and thin slices, followed by chopping into small chunks. Transfer the apple pieces into a mixing bowl.
- Prepare Puff Pastry and Assemble: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it evenly into 9 squares. Distribute the apple mixture evenly in the center of each square. Top each portion with a slice of butter and approximately one teaspoon of brown sugar.
- Fold and Seal: Mix the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush a thin line of egg wash along one edge of each pastry square. Fold the pastry diagonally over the filling forming a triangle. Seal the edges by pressing with the tines of a fork along both straight edges. Brush the top with remaining egg wash, make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape, and sprinkle coarse sugar over each turnover.
- Bake: Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the turnovers cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- You can substitute Granny Smith apples for a slightly tarter flavor or Fuji apples for extra sweetness.
- Ensure the puff pastry is sufficiently thawed but still cold for easier handling and better puff.
- The coarse sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and sparkle; brown sugar inside adds moist sweetness.
- Let turnovers cool slightly before eating to avoid burning from hot filling.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use an egg replacer for the wash.
