If you’ve ever wished for a simple yet stunning dessert that looks like it took hours but tastes like a warm hug, this Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe is absolutely your new best friend. Crisp, buttery puff pastry wrapped around soft, cinnamon-kissed apples creates a delightful blend of flaky and tender in every bite. Sweetness is perfectly balanced with just a hint of brown sugar, making these turnovers irresistible whether you’re enjoying a cozy afternoon snack or impressing guests after dinner. Trust me, once you try this Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe, you’ll be reaching for it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something unique to the table — from butter’s richness to the apples’ natural sweetness, and the flaky puff pastry that acts as the perfect golden wrapper. Together, they transform basic pantry staples into a show-stopping treat.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into 9 equal slices): Adds a luscious richness and helps create pockets of buttery flavor inside each turnover.
- 2 cups apples (cored and cut into small pieces): The star ingredient offering fresh, juicy bites and that classic apple flavor.
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed): Brings sweetness and a warm caramel note that enhances the fruit beautifully.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (frozen, thawed and cut into 9 equal squares): The oh-so-flaky dough that creates the perfect golden crust every time.
- 1 egg (for egg wash – 1 large egg + 1 teaspoon water, beaten): Gives the turnovers a gorgeous glossy finish and helps seal the pastry.
- ¼ cup coarse sugar (for topping): Adds a delightful crunch and sparkly look on top.
How to Make Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot so your puff pastry can rise perfectly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Chop the Apples
Core your apples and slice them into quarters, then into thin slices before chopping into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly inside the turnovers, giving you tender, flavorful bites in every mouthful.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll your thawed puff pastry gently on a floured surface to avoid sticking, then cut the sheet into 9 even squares. Placing the apple mixture right in the center of each square ensures every fold bursts with fruit. Don’t forget to top the apples with a slice of butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar—this combo creates irresistible pockets of flavor.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Using a little egg wash as “glue,” brush one edge of the pastry square, fold it over to form a triangle, and press down the edges firmly with a fork. This seals everything inside so juices don’t escape during baking. Brush the tops with more egg wash, cut a few slits for steam to escape, and sprinkle on the coarse sugar for that perfect crunch and sparkle.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the turnovers on your prepared sheet and bake for 15 to 17 minutes until they’re puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for 5 minutes—if you can wait that long—before digging in. These turnovers taste incredible warm, but don’t hesitate to pair them with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Serve Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes these turnovers from wonderful to unforgettable. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few toasted nuts if you want a little added texture and warmth.
Side Dishes
Apple turnovers make a perfect companion to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. For breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside a cup of hot coffee or a glass of fresh apple cider for a cozy, comforting vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your turnovers warm on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming autumnal display. Or arrange them in a basket lined with a linen cloth for a delightful picnic addition that will impress family and friends alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep the pastry crisp, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked turnovers by assembling them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked turnovers freeze well too—just reheat to enjoy fresh-tasting treats anytime.
Reheating
To bring back that flaky, warm goodness, reheat your turnovers in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from getting soggy; crisp and flaky is the goal here!
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape and provide a great balance between tartness and sweetness.
Do I have to use frozen puff pastry?
Frozen puff pastry is convenient and reliable for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it fully before rolling and cutting to prevent cracking or tearing.
Can I make the turnovers vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk wash instead of an egg wash for brushing the pastry.
What can I do if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F. Also, avoid overfilling the turnovers, and don’t skip the slits on top, which help steam escape and encourage puffing.
How sweet will these turnovers be?
The sweetness is balanced from the natural sugars in the apples combined with brown sugar and the crunch of coarse sugar on top. You can always adjust the brown sugar quantity to taste!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. This recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly satisfying—whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy every flaky, fruity bite of these delightful turnovers. You won’t regret it!
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
Delight in these homemade Apple Turnovers featuring flaky puff pastry filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. Perfectly golden and topped with coarse sugar for a sweet crunch, these turnovers make an ideal dessert or snack that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups apples, cored and cut into small pieces
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 9 equal slices
Dough
- 1 sheet puff pastry, frozen, thawed and cut into 9 equal squares
Toppings & Finishing
- 1 large egg + 1 teaspoon water, beaten (for egg wash)
- ¼ cup coarse sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Apples: Core the apples, then slice them into quarters and thin slices before cutting into small chunks. Place these apple pieces into a mixing bowl.
- Prepare Puff Pastry and Assemble: On a well-floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry dough. Cut into 9 equal squares. Evenly distribute the apple filling to the center of each pastry square, topping each with one slice of butter and about one teaspoon of brown sugar.
- Form Turnovers: Brush a thin line of egg wash along one edge of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over the filling diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal thoroughly. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash. Cut a few small slits in the surface of each turnover to allow steam to escape during baking. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for a crunchy topping.
- Bake and Cool: Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven and allow to cool at least 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is well-thawed but cold before handling to ensure the best puff and texture.
- The coarse sugar topping adds a pleasant crunch and appearance, but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Reheat turnovers in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore crispness before serving.
