Apple Turnovers (Puff Pastry)

Apple turnovers are a delightful pastry treat that combines flaky puff pastry with a warm, spiced apple filling. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these turnovers are easy to make and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare these delicious pastries.What You Need to Make Apple Turnovers

Ingredients

Puff Pastry: 1 pound (two sheets), thawed according to package instructions

Filling:

• 3 Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced

• 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• ¼ cup light brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ⅛ teaspoon allspice

• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Zest of ½ a lemon

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with a little water

  Egg Wash: 1 large egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of heavy cream (for brushing)

  Optional Glaze: ¾ cup confectioners' sugar mixed with 2-3 tablespoons of milk

Equipment

• Baking sheets

• Parchment paper

• Medium saucepan

• Pastry brush

• Tools for sealing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook the mixture for about 12 to 15 minutes until the apples are softened.

Next, stir in the cornstarch mixture and simmer until thickened. Adjust the sweetness and spices to your liking, then let the filling cool.

2. Assemble the Turnovers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Roll each sheet out to ensure it’s even, about 10-11 inches on each side. Cut each sheet into four squares, giving you a total of eight squares.

Place about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center of each square, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges. Brush the edges lightly with the egg wash to help seal them. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle and press the edges with a fork to secure.

3. Prepare for Baking

Arrange the assembled turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the egg wash for a golden finish. Using a paring knife, cut a few small vents on top of each turnover to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Bake

Bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for about 20 to 22 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a cooling rack and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

5. Optional Glaze

If desired, once the turnovers have cooled, drizzle them with a simple glaze made from confectioners' sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips and Variations

Apple Choices: Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for the best texture. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, as they tend to disintegrate.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and puff pastry in advance. The filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, while assembled but unbaked turnovers can be frozen for up to three months.

Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins such as raisins or nuts to the apple filling.

Apple turnovers made with puff pastry are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness paired with the sweet and spiced apple filling!