There’s a certain charm that fills the kitchen when the crisp autumn air starts to settle in, making it the perfect time for baking homemade apple turnovers. As I pulled out the last of my summer apples from the fruit bowl, I felt inspired to create something special. This delightful treat combines flaky, buttery pastry with a warm, spiced apple filling that dances on your palate. Not only are these turnovers a breeze to whip up, but they also transform simple ingredients into a dessert that feels gourmet.
If you’ve ever craved that comforting flavor of warm apple pie but don’t want to fuss with a full pie crust, then these turnovers are your answer. In under an hour, you can enjoy a batch that far surpasses anything from the store, delivering a homemade touch that brings a smile with every bite. Whether served alongside coffee for breakfast or as a sweet ending to dinner, these apple turnovers are sure to win over even the most fast-food weary of souls. Let’s get into how to bring this warm, deliciousness to your table!
Why are Apple Turnovers a Must-Try?
Flaky, Buttery Layers: The pastry is expertly crafted, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that perfectly complements the sweet filling.
Sweet, Spiced Goodness: Caramelized apples mingled with warm cinnamon and vanilla create a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
Quick and Easy: Taking under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy home chefs looking to impress without the hassle!
Versatile Filling Options: While apples shine, feel free to swap in peaches or cherries for exciting new variations!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at breakfast, brunch, or a dinner party, these turnovers are sure to please any crowd craving homemade goodness.
Don’t forget to check out our tips for serving suggestions to elevate your experience even further!
Apple Turnovers Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Pie Crust Dough – Use homemade for the best results; store-bought is a handy substitute if you’re short on time.
For the Filling
• Apples – Aim for tart varieties like Gala or Granny Smith to balance the sweetness; you’ll need about 1.75 lbs before peeling.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds depth to the filling; granulated sugar can be swapped in if necessary.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted for richness; if using salted butter, adjust added salt to taste.
• Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the filling and keeping the pastry crisp; no direct substitutes, but tapioca starch works in a pinch.
• Ground Cinnamon – Elevates the apple flavor with warmth; consider nutmeg as a cozy alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; almond extract or an extra dash of cinnamon can work in its place.
• Salt – A pinch enhances flavor; kosher or sea salt will work wonders.
For the Egg Wash & Topping
• Egg – Creates a beautiful, glossy finish on the pastry; feel free to opt for a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Coarse Sugar – Optional for a crunchy, sparkling finish; regular granulated sugar can do the trick.
This combination of ingredients will help you create delicious homemade apple turnovers that outshine store-bought options!
How to Make Apple Turnovers
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
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Cook the filling by combining peeled and diced apples, light brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and salt in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and allow it to cool.
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Roll out your pie crust dough to about ⅓-inch thick, then cut it into squares measuring 4½ inches. This will become the delicious outer layer for your apple goodness!
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Brush the pastry squares with the egg wash and fill each square with approximately a tablespoon of the apple mixture. Fold the corners over and crimp the edges with a fork to secure the filling inside.
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Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash, then sprinkle with coarse sugar for a delightful crunch. Cut slits in the tops to allow steam to escape while baking.
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Bake your apple turnovers in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before glazing.
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For the Glaze: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled turnovers for that perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Turnovers Variations
Customize your turnovers to match your flavor desires and dietary needs!
- Fruit Swaps: Use peaches, cherries, or even berries for vibrant, fruity fillings that change the flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free version.
- Whole Wheat Crust: Opt for whole wheat flour in your pie crust for added nutrients and a hearty texture.
- Maple Sweetener: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the filling to introduce a delightful warmth and layer of complexity.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a crunchy surprise in every bite.
- Extra Glaze: Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of icing for an indulgent twist that takes these turnovers to the next level.
- Heat it Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the apple mixture for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These homemade apple turnovers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the apple filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking the peeled and diced apples with sugar, butter, and spices, then allowing it to cool and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie crust can also be rolled out and cut into squares ahead of time; simply keep them layered with parchment paper and enclosed in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, refrigerate or freeze folded turnovers on a baking sheet and transfer to an airtight container once frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through, and relish these comforting apple turnovers with less fuss!
Expert Tips for Apple Turnovers
• Cool the Filling: Allow the apple mixture to cool completely before filling the dough to prevent melting the flaky pastry.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft while working with it, refrigerate briefly to make handling easier and achieve perfectly shaped turnovers.
• Thick Filling: Use cornstarch to thicken the apple filling, avoiding a soggy pastry. Tapioca starch is a viable alternative if needed.
• Seal Properly: Ensure that the edges of the turnovers are crimped tightly to keep the filling from leaking during baking, preserving that delicious apple turnover experience.
• Glaze for Shine: For an elegant finish, apply an egg wash before baking and a drizzle of glaze afterward, making your homemade apple turnovers irresistibly tempting!
Enjoy your baking adventure!
What to Serve with Apple Turnovers?
Indulging in a warm, flaky apple turnover is a delicious experience, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal further.
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Fresh Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a velvety touch, beautifully balancing the sweet and spiced flavors of the turnovers.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of ice cream combined with warm turnovers creates a delightful contrast that’s pure comfort.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the turnovers, making it an ideal pairing for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the turnovers enhances the apple filling’s sweetness, providing an extra layer of indulgence.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Enhancing seasonal vibes, a warm mug of spiced apple cider resonates perfectly with the flavors in each turnover.
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Dusted Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top elevates the presentation and adds a touch of sweetness.
These pairings weave together flavors and textures, making your apple turnovers a star centerpiece in any gathering or cozy breakfast!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Turnovers
Room Temperature: Keep freshly baked apple turnovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their flaky texture. Avoid exposure to moisture.
Fridge: Store apple turnovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out while keeping the filling deliciously moist.
Freezer: To freeze, flash freeze the apple turnovers on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for several months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen apple turnovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Apple Turnovers Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for apple turnovers?
I recommend using tart varieties like Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples. These types strike the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness, allowing for that ideal flavor profile in your homemade apple turnovers.
How do I store apple turnovers?
Store your freshly baked apple turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they remain well-sealed to keep the filling moist and the pastry flaky.
Can apple turnovers be frozen?
Absolutely! To freeze apple turnovers, first flash freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour. This helps maintain their shape. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my pastry becomes soggy?
If your pastry turns out soggy, it may be due to too much moisture in the filling. To prevent this, ensure the apple mixture is properly thickened with cornstarch and allow it to cool before filling your dough. Additionally, ensure you’ve crimped the edges well to keep the filling inside during baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pie crust dough with a gluten-free pie crust to make gluten-free apple turnovers. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as vanilla extract and sugar, are also gluten-free.
Are apple turnovers suitable for pets?
While apples are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, avoid giving them the filling, which contains sugar and butter. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian before sharing any homemade treats with your pets.
Flaky Homemade Apple Turnovers that Beat Store-Bought Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Cook the filling by combining peeled and diced apples, light brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and salt in a skillet over medium heat.
- Roll out your pie crust dough to about ⅓-inch thick, then cut it into squares measuring 4½ inches.
- Brush the pastry squares with the egg wash and fill each square with approximately a tablespoon of the apple mixture.
- Fold the corners over and crimp the edges with a fork to secure the filling inside.
- Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash, then sprinkle with coarse sugar. Cut slits in the tops to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake your apple turnovers in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled turnovers for that perfect finishing touch!