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Introduction

Apple turnovers are a delightful pastry filled with a warm, spiced apple filling wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry. These hand-held treats are a perfect combination of crisp, buttery layers and sweet, cinnamon-infused apples. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a dessert, or a snack with coffee, apple turnovers are loved for their comforting flavors and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

1. Flaky & Buttery – The crispy puff pastry makes every bite irresistible.
2. Warm & Spiced Apple Filling – A cozy mix of apples, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. Easy to Make – Uses store-bought or homemade puff pastry for quick prep.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Origin of Apple Turnovers

Apple turnovers are part of the turnover family, a pastry style that dates back to medieval Europe. The idea of folding dough around a sweet or savory filling was popular in France, where chausson aux pommes (French apple turnovers) became a classic. Over time, different countries developed their versions, but the combination of apples, sugar, and flaky pastry remains a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji) – peeled and diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)

For the Turnovers:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling, optional)

Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until apples soften.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and cornstarch mixture, cooking for another minute until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal squares.

Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers

1. Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center of each square.
2. Fold each square into a triangle, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork.
3. Brush the tops with an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with milk) for a golden finish.
4. Use a knife to make small slits on top for steam to escape.
5. Sprinkle with granulated sugar if desired.

Step 4: Bake the Turnovers

1. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and puffy.
2. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

1. Let the Filling Cool – Warm filling can make the pastry soggy.
2. Use Cold Puff Pastry – Warm dough won’t puff up properly in the oven.
3. Seal the Edges Well – Prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
4. Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can cause the turnovers to burst open.
5. Bake at High Heat – Ensures a crisp, golden crust instead of a soggy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar – For a simple, elegant finish.
• Drizzled with Caramel or Glaze – Adds extra sweetness and flavor.
• With Ice Cream – Warm apple turnovers pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream.
• With Coffee or Tea – A cozy snack perfect for any time of day.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

1. Apples – High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support heart health.
2. Cinnamon – Helps regulate blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Butter – Provides healthy fats that enhance flavor and texture.
4. Puff Pastry – While indulgent, it provides quick energy due to its carbohydrate content.

Interesting Facts About Apple Turnovers

1. The earliest turnovers were called “portable pies” because they were easy to carry and eat on the go.
2. Granny Smith apples are the most popular choice for turnovers due to their tart flavor.
3. In France, apple turnovers are known as “chausson aux pommes,” which means “apple slipper.”
4. The turnover technique has been used for both sweet and savory fillings for centuries.

Summarized Recipe

1. Make the Apple Filling – Cook diced apples with butter, sugar, and cinnamon until soft.
2. Prepare the Pastry – Cut puff pastry into squares.
3. Fill & Fold – Add apple filling, fold into triangles, and seal the edges.
4. Brush with Egg Wash – For a golden, crispy finish.
5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes until golden and puffy.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Apple turnovers are an easy yet impressive pastry that anyone can make at home. With a flaky, buttery crust and a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or with dessert, these turnovers offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

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