Introduction

These homemade apple turnovers are a delightful treat, featuring flaky puff pastry filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, they offer a delicious balance of sweet and buttery flavors.

The image shows several golden-brown, triangular pastries with flaky, crisp crusts, each having three small slits on top. They are arranged on a white marbled surface. One pastry is broken in half, revealing a filling of small, caramel-colored apple chunks inside. A drizzle of shiny caramel sauce covers the surface of all pastries, with some extra sauce pooled on the surface near a silver spoon. The warm tones of the pastries and the caramel contrast with the light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb. homemade rough puff pastry or store-bought frozen & thawed puff pastry (2 sheets)
2 cups (240g) peeled & diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup (100g) granulated or brown sugar (use either)

1 large egg*
1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk (any kind)
optional: 1/2 cup (145g) salted caramel, for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your dough. If using homemade rough puff pastry, complete it through the second refrigeration step. If using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it is fully thawed. Keep the dough refrigerated until ready to use.
Step 2: Make the filling by combining the diced apples, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 4: Shape the dough. For homemade dough (makes 9 turnovers), roll it into a 12-inch square on a lightly floured surface. Cut into nine 4-inch squares and place them on the baking sheets (4 on one sheet, 5 on the other). For store-bought dough (makes 8 turnovers), unroll the sheets, cut each into 4 squares, and arrange 4 on each sheet.
Step 5: Add the filling by spooning 2–3 tablespoons of the apple mixture onto the center of each square. Fold one corner over to form a triangle and seal the edges by crimping with a fork. Some juice leakage is normal.
Step 6: Chill the turnovers in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour. You may also freeze them at this stage if desired.

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush each chilled turnover with the egg wash and cut 2 or 3 small vents on top for steam to escape.
Step 8: Bake for 23–25 minutes until golden brown. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even coloring. It’s normal for some butter to leak if using homemade dough.
Step 9: Let the turnovers cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before serving. If you like, drizzle with salted caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor in the filling.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling before cooking.
Freeze assembled turnovers before baking for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra spice.

Storage

Store leftover apple turnovers covered at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can soften the pastry.

How to Serve

The image shows several golden brown apple turnovers with a flaky, layered crust, some drizzled with a shiny caramel sauce. One turnover is cut open at the center, revealing juicy, cinnamon-spiced apple chunks inside, with a glossy texture. The turnovers have a slightly browned, textured surface with visible crispy folds and vents. They are lying on a white marbled surface with a soft pink cloth blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fruit in place of apples?

Yes, you can substitute pears, peaches, or berries for the apples, but cooking times and filling consistency may vary slightly.

Do I have to make the puff pastry from scratch?

No, store-bought puff pastry works wonderfully and saves time. Just ensure it is fully thawed before assembling the turnovers.