Name: Apple Turnovers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry; 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced; Juice of 1 small lemon; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 teaspoons apple pie spice; 1 egg white; 1 teaspoon water; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk

Why You’ll Love Apple Turnovers Recipe

These apple turnovers are simple, comforting, and bakery-style without much effort. The puff pastry bakes up crisp and buttery, while the apple filling becomes soft, sweet, and lightly spiced. They are also great for serving guests because each turnover is individually portioned and easy to enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 sheets puff pastry
4 Granny Smith apples
1 small lemon
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 teaspoons apple pie spice
1 egg white
1 teaspoon water
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Peel and slice the apples. If the slices are large, cut them smaller so they fit neatly inside the pastries. Squeeze the lemon juice over the apples to help prevent browning.

In a medium saucepan, combine the apples, butter, brown sugar, and apple pie spice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the apples soften and the sugar mixture becomes smooth.

Mix the cornstarch with a little water, then pour it over the apples. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Unfold the puff pastry sheets and trim them into even squares if needed. Cut each pastry sheet into 4 smaller squares, making 8 squares total.

Spoon about 3 tablespoons of apple filling onto one half of each square, keeping the filling away from the edges.

Fold each square from one corner to the opposite corner to form a triangle. Press and crimp the edges tightly to seal. Place the turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Whisk together the egg white and 1 teaspoon water until foamy. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the turnovers are puffed and golden.

Let them cool for 15 to 20 minutes.

Make the glaze by stirring together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

Spoon the glaze over the cooled turnovers and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 turnovers
Prep time: About 20 minutes
Cook time: About 30 minutes
Cooling time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

Use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious apples for a sweeter filling.

Add a pinch of cinnamon if you want extra warmth.

Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for crunch.

Add a little caramel sauce to the filling for a richer dessert.

Skip the glaze and dust the turnovers with powdered sugar instead.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the pastry soft.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, canned apple pie filling can be used for a quicker version, but homemade filling gives the turnovers a fresher flavor.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer more texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the turnovers and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze apple turnovers?

Yes, freeze them unbaked or baked. For best results, freeze unbaked turnovers and bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Why did my turnovers leak?

They may have been overfilled or not sealed tightly enough. Keep the filling away from the edges and crimp well.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, homemade puff pastry works well if you prefer making it from scratch.

What is apple pie spice?

Apple pie spice is usually a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes ginger or cardamom.

Can I use a whole egg for the egg wash?

Yes, but using egg white gives the tops a lighter shine. A whole egg will create a slightly deeper golden color.

Should the apple filling cool before filling the pastry?

Yes, letting it cool slightly helps prevent the puff pastry from becoming too soft.

Can I make the glaze thicker?

Yes, add more powdered sugar until it reaches your preferred thickness.

Conclusion

Apple turnovers are a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender spiced apples wrapped in flaky puff pastry. With a sweet glaze on top and a warm apple filling inside, they make a comforting treat that feels special but is easy enough for any day.