Name: Apple Turnovers Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ Tablespoons salted butter; 4 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 ½ Tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon allspice; Pinch of salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 Tablespoon flour (optional, depending on juice); 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed but kept refrigerated); 1 large egg; 1 Tablespoon water; ½ cup powdered (confectioners’) sugar; 1 Tablespoon milk (plus more if needed); ½ Tablespoon cream cheese at room temperature (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 47 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful treat that’s buttery, flaky, and bursting with warm, spiced apple goodness, this Apple Turnovers Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Perfectly golden pockets of puff pastry encase a luscious filling of tender Granny Smith apples, kissed with cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg. Whether for a cozy breakfast, a special dessert, or a sweet snack, these turnovers combine simple ingredients into a sensational flavor experience that’s both comforting and impressive. Let me walk you through every step so you can enjoy these flaky delights right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of a shiny metal pan on a white marbled surface with diced apples inside. On the left side, the apples are raw and pale yellow, with a pile of brown cinnamon powder on top in the center. Around the pan on the surface, there are small wooden and white bowls with ingredients like sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. On the right side, the apples in the pan are cooked, turning golden brown and coated evenly with cinnamon, giving them a warm, textured look. Next to the pan is a metal sifter and a rolled piece of parchment paper on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating the perfect apple turnovers is all about using straightforward, quality ingredients that blend beautifully to deliver rich flavors and flaky textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the crisp tart apples to the delicate puff pastry that wraps the filling in tender, buttery layers.

Salted butter: Adds richness and helps cook the apples to a soft, flavorful filling.
Granny Smith apples: Their tartness balances the sweetness and holds structure when cooked.
Light brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the spices.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the filling and keeps the apples from browning.
Ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm, comforting spice note we all love.
Ground nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and a hint of warmth to the filling.
Allspice: Brings a blend of spice flavors that enhance the apple mixture beautifully.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely aromatic sweetness into the apples.
Flour: Helps thicken the filling so it’s not runny and perfect for stuffing.
Puff pastry sheets: The flaky, buttery canvas that envelops all the deliciousness.
Egg: Mixed with water for an egg wash that ensures a gorgeous golden crust.
Powdered sugar: The base of a simple glaze that adds a pretty, sweet finish.
Milk: Adjusts the glaze to the right drizzle consistency.
Cream cheese (optional): Adds a subtle tang and creaminess to the glaze.

How to Make Apple Turnovers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the luscious apple filling

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat—this is where that rich base of flavor begins. Toss in the diced Granny Smith apples and let them soften gently for about three minutes. Then it’s time to sweeten and spice things up by stirring in the brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of salt. Let these flavors mingle and cook together for another few minutes, allowing the apples to become tender and full of warm spice. Stir in the vanilla extract last for that fragrant touch.

Step 2: Thicken and chill the filling

Depending on how juicy your apples are, add a little flour gradually to get a thick, syrupy texture—this will make sure the filling stays perfect inside the turnover without leaking. Once thickened, transfer the mixture to a bowl and cool it first at room temperature, then chill in the fridge. This step is crucial; the cooled filling keeps the puff pastry from becoming soggy and helps maintain those irresistible flaky layers.

Step 3: Assemble your turnovers

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then prepare your workspace with a floured surface and a sheet of parchment paper on your baking tray. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares. Whip up the egg wash to seal and shine your turnover edges. Spoon the chilled apple filling onto half of each square, leaving a border for the egg wash. Fold the dough over to make a triangle and crimp the edges with a fork, sealing in all the sweet goodness.

Step 4: Chill and bake for perfect flakiness

After assembling, chill the turnovers in the freezer or fridge to firm up the dough and filling—this step is key for that beautifully flaky texture. Brush with more egg wash before placing them on the middle oven rack. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Let them cool on a rack; you’ll want that exterior crisp while the inside stays tender.

Step 5: Add the finishing glaze

Combine powdered sugar, milk, and optional cream cheese until you create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency with a little more milk or sugar if needed. Drizzle this over your turnovers for a sweet, shiny finish that makes them look as delightful as they taste.

How to Serve Apple Turnovers Recipe

The image shows golden brown triangular pastries arranged on a black cooling rack, each layered with flaky and crispy texture, and topped with a white glaze drizzled in thin lines across the surface. The pastries have a slightly puffed look with crimped edges for a sealed appearance. In the background, there are several green apples adding a fresh touch. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a white cloth featuring red stripes casually placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, a light dusting of extra powdered sugar adds a snowy effect and a sprinkle of cinnamon nods back to the flavors inside. Fresh apple slices or a few mint leaves nearby add color and freshness to the plate.

Side Dishes

Apple turnovers pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent breakfast. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese also complements the warm spices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your turnovers with a small ramekin of caramel sauce for dipping or arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh fruit for a charming brunch spread. Wrapping the turnovers individually in parchment paper ribbons makes a wonderful gift or picnic treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover apple turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their flaky crust. Avoid refrigeration if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Freezing

Apple turnovers freeze beautifully! Place unbaked turnovers on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To enjoy your turnovers warm and crisp, reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 12 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky and not chewy.

FAQs

Can I use apples other than Granny Smith for this Apple Turnovers Recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness and hold their shape well, you can experiment with varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter, softer filling. Just keep an eye on moisture levels when cooking.

Is puff pastry necessary or can I make turnovers with regular pie dough?

Puff pastry gives these turnovers their signature flaky texture and buttery richness, but pie dough can be used if you prefer a sturdier, less airy crust. The cooking time and texture will differ slightly, though.

Can I prepare the apple filling in advance?

Definitely! The filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure it is fully cooled before filling the puff pastry to keep the dough crisp and flaky.

How do I prevent the turnovers from getting soggy?

Chilling the filling before assembling and adding a bit of flour to thicken it are key steps. Also, chilling the assembled turnovers before baking helps maintain the dough’s structure and texture.

Is the cream cheese in the glaze optional?

Yes, it’s optional. Cream cheese adds a slight tanginess and creaminess to the glaze, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler sugar glaze or need a dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Turnovers Recipe is such a joy to make and share. There is something truly special about biting into a golden, flaky pastry pocket filled with warmly spiced apples that instantly feels like a comforting hug. Give it a try, impress your loved ones, and most of all, enjoy every delicious moment that comes with it!