Introduction
Apple turnovers are a delightful pastry treat that combine flaky puff pastry with a sweet and tangy apple filling. This recipe utilizes Granny Smith apples for their perfect tartness and ability to hold shape during cooking. Whether enjoyed as a warm dessert or a delightful snack, these turnovers are sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Apple Turnover Filling:
– 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, diced into 1.25cm cubes, 6 cups
– 2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch (thickens sauce)
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch salt
– Apple Turnover:
– 2 square puff pastry sheets (25 cm/10″), butter best
– 1 egg, whisked
– Cream Filled Version:
– 2 batches Stabilised whipped cream OR stiff whipped cream
– Optional Serving Extras:
– 1 batch Whipped cream for dunking
– Icing sugar/powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, including the time to prepare and cook the apple filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Yield: Serves approximately 8 turnovers
Enjoy the delightful taste of warm apple turnovers with a drizzle of icing sugar and a side of whipped cream for dunking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
Put the peeled and diced Granny Smith apples in a large saucepan. Toss the apples with cornflour to coat them evenly. Add the cinnamon, white sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Cook on medium to medium-high heat, stirring regularly, for about 5 minutes. The apples should be softened but still maintain their shape, and there should be some caramelization without excessive liquid.
Cool the Filling
Transfer the apple filling to a large plate and spread it out evenly to allow it to cool completely.
Prepare for Turnovers
Line a large cutting board or an upside-down tray with baking or parchment paper.
Cut Puff Pastry
Take one puff pastry sheet (barely thawed) and cut it into 4 equal squares, each measuring 12.5cm by 12.5cm (5 inches). Brush two edges of each square with the whisked egg.
Add Filling
Place a generous pile of the cooled apple filling onto the egg-brushed side of each pastry square. Be careful not to include too much sauce, as it can make the base soggy and prevent proper sealing.
Seal Turnovers
Fold over each pastry square to encase the filling. Use a fork dipped in flour to seal the edges securely, preventing the pastry from sticking. Transfer the sealed turnovers to the paper-lined cutting board or tray.
Chill and Preheat Oven
Refrigerate the assembled turnovers for 20 minutes to ensure they puff up better during baking. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), or 180°C if using a fan-assisted oven.
Bake the Turnovers
Slide the parchment paper with the turnovers onto a large baking tray. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the remaining whisked egg and make three small slashes on top of each one to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Serve Warm
Remove the turnovers from the oven and serve them warm, dusted with icing sugar and accompanied by whipped cream for dunking.
Prepare Cream-Filled Option
Once the turnovers have cooled on a cooling rack, carefully split the seam side open with a knife and pipe in the stabilised whipped cream. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
Apple Selection
Granny Smith apples are recommended due to their tartness and ability to hold shape during cooking. Avoid red apple varieties, as they tend to break down and become mushy.
Puff Pastry Tip
Using butter-based puff pastry is preferred for taste. For easier handling, keep the pastry barely thawed and avoid letting it fully thaw, especially in warmer conditions, to prevent stickiness.
Whipped Cream Options
For cream-filled turnovers, use stabilised whipped cream for better structural integrity compared to regular whipped cream, which can be too light and may squirt out upon biting.
Serving Cream
For an easier option, serve the turnovers with a side of whipped cream for dipping. Only one batch of cream is needed for dunking.
Avoid Excess Liquid
Do not use a bowl to cool the apple filling, as it can trap excess liquid, making the filling too runny.
Transfer Baking Tip
Do not bake the turnovers on the tray used for chilling, as it can become too cold and result in undercooked bases. Transfer them carefully to a preheated tray.
Storage Instructions
Non-cream filled turnovers can be stored for up to 3 days; reheating in the oven is recommended. Cream-filled turnovers with stabilised whipped cream will last 24 to 36 hours in the refrigerator. Avoid using plain whipped cream for filling if not consumed immediately, as it will weep within half an hour.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Apple Filling
Start by peeling and dicing the Granny Smith apples into 1.25cm cubes. Toss them with cornflour in a large saucepan, then add sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook on medium heat until the apples soften, ensuring they maintain their shape.
Chilling the Filling
After cooking the apple filling, spread it out on a large plate to cool completely. This step prevents the pastry from becoming soggy when filled.
Cutting and Preparing the Pastry
Work with one sheet of puff pastry at a time. Cut each sheet into four squares, each measuring 12.5cm (5 inches). Brush two sides of each square with whisked egg for sealing and adding a golden finish.
Filling the Pastry
Place a generous amount of the cooled apple filling on the egg-brushed side of the pastry, avoiding excess sauce to prevent leaks. Fold over the pastry and use a fork dipped in flour to seal the edges securely.
Chilling Before Baking
Transfer the filled turnovers to a parchment-lined cutting board and refrigerate for 20 minutes. This helps achieve a better puff during baking.
Baking the Turnovers
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the turnovers on a lined baking tray for about 25 minutes until they are golden brown. Brush the tops with egg wash before baking and make three small slits on top for steam to escape.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, allow the turnovers to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with icing sugar and provide whipped cream for dipping.
Making the Cream-Filled Version
For cream-filled turnovers, let the baked turnovers cool completely. Carefully split open the seam side and pipe in stabilized whipped cream for a delightful addition.
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples for the recipe?
While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, you can experiment with other varieties. However, keep in mind that sweeter apples may break down more during cooking.
What is the purpose of refrigerating the turnovers before baking?
Refrigerating the turnovers allows the pastry to firm up, resulting in better puff and a flaky texture during baking.
How should I store leftover apple turnovers?
Non cream-filled turnovers can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If filled with cream, they should be kept in the fridge and consumed within 24 to 36 hours.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the apple filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to fill the pastry.
Why should I avoid using a bowl to cool the apples?
Using a bowl may cause the apples to sweat and release too much liquid, which can make the filling watery and affect the pastry’s texture.
What’s the difference between stabilised whipped cream and regular whipped cream?
Stabilised whipped cream has added ingredients that help it maintain its structure for a longer time, making it ideal for filling pastries. Regular whipped cream tends to lose volume quickly and may weep after some time.
Conclusion
The apple turnover recipe is a delightful blend of tart Granny Smith apples and a flaky puff pastry, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With options for a cream-filled variant and easy serving suggestions, these turnovers are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy them warm and dusted with powdered sugar, paired with whipped cream for the ultimate treat!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Use the same apple filling with cinnamon in a soft dough rolled up, topped with icing.
Apple Pie Parfaits
Layer the apple filling with whipped cream and crumbled puff pastry for a quick and visually appealing dessert.
Caramel Apple Tart
Create a tart using the apple filling, topped with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Apple Pancakes
Utilize leftover apple filling as a topping for fluffy pancakes, drizzled with maple syrup.
Cheesecake Filling
Incorporate the apple filling into cheesecake for a delicious twist on a classic dessert.
Apple Stuffed Crepes
Fill thin crepes with the cooked apple mixture and serve with a dollop of cream or ice cream.
