Homemade Apple Turnovers

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s as comforting as a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Homemade Apple Turnovers are a family favorite in my house. They are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The combination of flaky pastry and gooey cinnamon apples is simply irresistible. Plus, who can resist a drizzle of caramel on top? These turnovers are not only delicious but also bring back fond memories of baking in the kitchen with loved ones.

Whether you’re treating your family to a sweet surprise after dinner or bringing a batch to a potluck, these turnovers will be the star of the show. Let’s dive into why this recipe is one you’ll want to keep close!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet apple filling and crispy pastry. It’s an excellent way to get everyone involved in the kitchen!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the turnovers when you’re ready to bake.
• Deliciously customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors and fillings according to your preference—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual weekday treat or a festive celebration, these turnovers fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be part of the fun! Here are the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need for your Homemade Apple Turnovers:

• 1 lb. homemade rough puff pastry or store-bought frozen & thawed puff pastry (2 sheets)
• 2 cups (240g) peeled & diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated or brown sugar (use either)
• 1 large egg
• 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk (any kind)
• optional: 1/2 cup (145g) salted caramel, for drizzling

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative with flavors! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try different fruits: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a twist on the classic filling.
• Spice it up: Add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an aromatic boost.
• Go chocolatey: Mix in some chocolate chips with the apple filling for a decadent treat!

How to Make Homemade Apple Turnovers

Step 1: Prepare Your Pastry Dough

Start by preparing your homemade rough puff pastry dough through its second refrigeration stage. If you’re using store-bought frozen puff pastry, make sure it’s fully thawed before moving on. Keeping your dough chilled until you’re ready helps ensure those flaky layers we all love!

Step 2: Cook the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine your diced apples, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sugar. Stir constantly for about five minutes until everything starts bubbling away. This step infuses the apples with flavor and thickens up the mixture nicely. Afterward, reduce the heat and let it simmer for another five minutes before removing it from heat. Allow it to cool for about twenty minutes—this gives you time to prep your baking sheets!

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats while your apple filling cools down. This ensures that your turnovers won’t stick when it’s time to bake them.

Step 4: Roll Out Your Dough

If you’re using homemade dough (which makes nine turnovers), roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a square about twelve inches wide. If you’ve opted for store-bought dough (makes eight), simply unroll each sheet onto a floured surface and cut them into four squares each. Transfer these squares onto your prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Assemble Your Turnovers

Spoon about two to three tablespoons of that delicious apple filling onto the center of each square. Fold one corner over to form a triangle and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tight. Some juice may escape during baking—don’t worry; that’s perfectly fine! Chill these beauties in the refrigerator for at least fifteen minutes while you preheat your oven.

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Make Egg Wash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Whisk together an egg and milk in a small bowl—this will be your egg wash! Brush each chilled turnover with this mixture; this gives them that lovely golden color while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your baking sheets in the oven and bake those turnovers for about twenty-three to twenty-five minutes until they are golden brown. Rotate pans halfway through so they cook evenly.

Step 8: Cool & Drizzle

Once baked, let them cool on the sheets for five minutes before serving. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle each turnover with salted caramel—trust me; it takes them over the top!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), cover them and store them at room temperature for one day or in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Now that you’ve got this cherished recipe under your belt, I hope you enjoy making these Homemade Apple Turnovers as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Apple Turnovers

Making homemade apple turnovers is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can help you achieve perfect results every time!

• Chill the Dough: Keeping your puff pastry chilled before baking ensures it stays flaky and creates those beautiful layers. Warm dough can lead to a less desirable texture.
• Use Tart Apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural acidity balances the sweetness of the sugar and caramel, enhancing the overall flavor of your turnovers.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can cause your turnovers to burst while baking. Stick with 2–3 tablespoons for the best results.
• Vent the Tops: Cutting steam vents not only allows steam to escape but also helps your pastries rise beautifully without compromising their shape.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add extra spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on traditional flavors. This can elevate your apple filling and surprise your taste buds!

How to Serve Homemade Apple Turnovers

These homemade apple turnovers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. You can present them on a lovely dessert platter or as part of a cozy brunch spread.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the dish.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side complements the warm turnovers perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside warm turnovers makes for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide balance to the richness of the turnovers, making it a great pairing for brunch or dessert.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a wholesome side that brings brightness and healthiness to your meal.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving these turnovers with a cup of coffee or tea elevates the experience, creating a comforting atmosphere perfect for relaxing moments.

Now you’re all set to create and enjoy these scrumptious homemade apple turnovers! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Homemade Apple Turnovers are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy a delightful dessert whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are covered to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze before baking, shape the turnovers and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Bake frozen turnovers directly from the freezer at 400°F (204°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• If refrigerated, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious treats? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use different types of apples for my Homemade Apple Turnovers?

Absolutely! You can use any variety of apples you prefer. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp provide sweetness. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How can I make my Homemade Apple Turnovers even more flavorful?

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or raisins into the apple filling. A dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of lemon juice can also enhance the taste.

Can I make Homemade Apple Turnovers without eggs?

Yes! You can brush the tops with plant-based milk instead of egg wash for a beautiful finish. This will also keep them vegan-friendly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Homemade Apple Turnovers! They’re not just a treat but also a way to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Enjoy every flaky bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!