Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers are a delightful pastry that combines the flaky texture of puff pastry with the sweet, tart flavor of fresh apples. Perfect for an afternoon treat or as a dessert after dinner, these turnovers are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. They offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers is a wonderful way to indulge in a delicious and comforting dessert. The use of fresh Granny Smith apples gives these pastries a perfect tang that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sugars, while the buttery puff pastry provides a light and flaky casing. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also encourages creativity as you can customize the filling with spices or choose different types of apples. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and are a hit for gatherings, making them an perfect choice for those who love to entertain.

How to Make Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers

Ingredients

1 pound (2 sheets) puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
2 large (or 4 small) Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and diced into small uniform pieces)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/8 cup brown sugar
1/8 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1 large egg
1 tablespoon milk
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add in the diced apples. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Reduce the heat to low and add in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the apples are soft but not mushy. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using.
On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each puff pastry sheet into an 11-inch square. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares using a pizza cutter. If the pastry starts to soften, place it in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Place 1-2 tablespoons of the apple filling in the center of one square, being careful not to get any filling on the edges.
In a small bowl, beat together the egg and 1 tablespoon of milk. Brush the egg wash on two of the sides of the pastry square (just enough to seal it).
Fold one corner over the filling to the opposite corner to form a triangle. Press down on the edges to seal and crimp with a fork. Repeat with remaining pastry squares.
Cut 2-3 small slits in the top of each turnover using a sharp knife. Brush the egg wash over the top of each turnover.
Preheat the oven to 375°F and place the turnovers in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Line two 13×9-inch baking sheets with parchment paper and place the assembled turnovers about 1 inch apart on the sheets.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries before serving.

How to Serve Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers

Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own but can also be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some cinnamon sugar on top for added sweetness and flavor.

How to Store Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers

Store any leftover Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Tips to Make Apple Puff Pastry Turnovers

Ensure the puff pastry is well chilled when you work with it to prevent it from becoming overly soft.
Experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred flavor profile—Fuji or Honeycrisp also work well!
If you like a bit of tang, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the apple filling before assembling.

Variation

Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling for a unique twist! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch, while raisins or dried cranberries can introduce another layer of sweetness. You can also substitute the apples with pears for a different taste experience altogether.

FAQs

1. Can I make these turnovers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the turnovers and assemble them, then place them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

2. What can I use instead of Granny Smith apples?
While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can substitute them with other apples such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that sweetness levels may vary.

3. Can I freeze the baked turnovers?
Yes, baked turnovers can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving for the best texture.