Flaky Puff Pastry Apple Turnovers

These puff pastry apple turnovers are a flaky, buttery delight filled with a sweet and spiced apple mixture. They make a perfect treat for both breakfast and dessert, delivering a crisp exterior with a warm, tender filling that melts in your mouth.

I first made these turnovers on a chilly weekend morning, and the house filled with the scent of baked apples and cinnamon instantly made it a comforting favorite in our home.

Ingredients You Need

• Two sheets of frozen puff pastry: thawed for the perfect flaky crust that puffs up beautifully during baking
• One large egg beaten with water: to create an egg wash that gives the turnovers a shiny golden finish
• Coarse sugar: to sprinkle on top for a gentle crunch and added sweetness
• Three medium apples, peeled and diced: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the right balance of tartness and sweetness
• Granulated sugar: to sweeten the filling, easily adjustable based on your apple choice
• Ground cinnamon: to infuse that warm, comforting spice into the filling
• All-purpose flour: to help thicken the apple mixture so the filling isn’t runny
• Lemon juice: to brighten the apple flavors and prevent browning
• Butter: to enrich the filling with depth and creaminess
• Powdered sugar: for the glaze that finishes the turnovers with a soft, sweet drizzle
• Milk: to perfectly blend the glaze ingredients without making it too runny
• Vanilla extract: to add smooth aromatic notes to the glaze

Detailed Cooking Directions

Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Cook gently, stirring often until the apples soften but still hold their shape. Let the mixture cool completely to prevent sogginess in the pastry.

Cut and Fill the Pastry:

Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into six equal squares. Place a generous spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each square.

Seal and Brush:

Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly and crimp with a fork to seal the filling inside securely. Brush each turnover with the egg wash, then sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added texture and sparkle.

Bake to Perfection:

Arrange the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at a preheated oven until they are puffed up and golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Add the Finishing Touch:

While the turnovers bake, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over warm turnovers after they have cooled just slightly for an irresistible finish.

These turnovers became a weekend tradition in my family. My children love helping to fill and fold the pastry, and the kitchen always smells invitingly of cinnamon and baked apples. It’s a simple recipe that sparks joy and creates cherished moments when everyone gathers around the table.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep the pastry crisp. For longer storage, freeze fully cooled turnovers wrapped individually and then place in a freezer bag. Reheat in a warm oven for 10-15 minutes until flaky again. Avoid refrigerating turnovers as moisture can soften the delicate pastry layers.

Ingredient Variations

Add finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for added crunch and warmth. Swap out cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg to vary the spiced notes depending on your mood. Use caramel sauce drizzle instead of glaze for a richer, indulgent twist.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve warm turnovers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert upgrade. Pair with a cup of strong black tea or a spiced chai latte to balance the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche adds a lovely creamy contrast.

Seasonal Makeovers

Spring and summer versions could include fresh berries mixed into the apple filling for a burst of juiciness. In winter, a dash of ginger and cloves can bring cozy holiday vibes to the turnovers. Try pear or quince in place of apples in the fall for a seasonal shift with a similar comforting texture.

These apple turnovers are a heartwarming, flaky treat that easily becomes a favorite whether for a lazy weekend breakfast or a sweet after-dinner indulgence. The little rituals of preparing and baking them always feel like an invitation to slow down and savor the cozy moments of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What types of apples work best for turnovers?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

→ How can I make sure my puff pastry stays flaky?

Keep the pastry cold before baking and avoid overworking it. This helps maintain distinct layers that puff up during baking.

→ What is the purpose of the egg wash on the turnovers?

Brushing with egg wash adds a glossy, golden finish and helps the coarse sugar stick to the surface for added texture.

→ Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the apple filling can be made in advance and cooled completely; this helps prevent the pastry from becoming soggy during baking.

→ How can I adjust the glaze consistency?

Add milk gradually to powdered sugar until the glaze reaches your desired thickness for drizzling or spreading.