As the warm scent of cinnamon and caramelized apples wafts through my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to that cozy apple orchard where I picked the fruit for my Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust. These delightful treats are not just a feast for the senses; they’re an effortless way to elevate breakfast or turn a mundane afternoon into something special. With just a few ingredients and under an hour of your time, you can whip up a batch of buttery, flaky goodness that’s perfect for both busy mornings and sweet snacks. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just starting out, these turnovers promise to be a crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike. Curious how to bring this comforting bite into your home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Apple Turnovers Irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite unfolds layers of buttery pastry, sweet cinnamon, and tender apples that create a delightful flavor sensation.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, they appeal to both kids and adults, making them the ideal treat for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour of prep and bake time, these turnovers fit seamlessly into any busy schedule.
Customizable Goodness: Use your favorite apple varieties or add nuts for texture, allowing you to adapt this recipe to suit your taste.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy warm alongside a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, and elevate your serving experience even further! If you love easy baking, check out my Baked Apple Fritters for another sweet treat!
Best Apple Turnovers Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
• Granny Smith Apples – They provide the perfect tartness and hold their shape during baking; feel free to substitute with Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples for a sweeter flavor.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness to the filling; you can use either unsalted or salted butter depending on your taste preference.
• Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – This ingredient enhances sweetness and depth of flavor; adjust the amount if using sweeter apples.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – This warming spice elevates the aromatic quality of the filling, making every bite delightful.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – A tiny pinch balances sweetness; if using salted butter, consider reducing this amount.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp) – Though optional, it adds a beautiful depth to the apple flavor and is highly recommended.
For the Pastry
• Refrigerated Pie Dough (1 package) – Provides the structure and flakiness essential for the turnovers; feel free to make your own for a personal touch.
• Egg (1) – Used for an egg wash to create that gorgeous, golden finish on top of the turnovers.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – Sprinkled on top for a final touch of sweetness and crunch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust. This high temperature will help achieve that beautifully golden and flaky crust. Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even heat distribution.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core and slice 3 Granny Smith apples into small, uniform pieces. This allows for even cooking and texture in your turnovers. Place the apple pieces in a medium bowl and set them aside while you prepare the spiced filling for the best flavor infusion.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften but retain some shape. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
While the apple filling cools, roll out the refrigerated pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 6 equal circles, each about 5-6 inches in diameter. Use a pizza cutter or knife for clean edges. This prepared dough will serve as the delicious outer layer of your best apple turnovers.
Step 5: Fill the Dough Circles
Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can lead to leaks during baking. This generous portion will ensure each turnover is packed with that wonderful spiced apple goodness.
Step 6: Seal the Turnovers
Gently fold each dough circle over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, and then crimp the edges with a fork for added security. This step not only seals in the flavor but also gives your turnovers a charming look.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Place the sealed turnovers onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking. Using a sharp knife, cut small slits on the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape while baking. This will help keep your pastries crisp and flaky.
Step 8: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkles
Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush the mixture over the tops of the turnovers for a golden finish. Finally, sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar on top. This adds a beautiful crunch and enhances the sweetness of your Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake, which could lead to a tough crust. The delightful aroma of apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen!
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and allow the turnovers to cool for 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle. These delicious apple turnovers are now ready to be served—enjoy every last flaky bite!
Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful turnovers and customize them to your taste!
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Different Apple Types: Swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter, juicy filling.
For those who prefer a bit of tartness, stick with Granny Smith. Experimenting with different apples can adjust the sweetness level to your liking! -
Add Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
This added texture complements the soft apples beautifully, creating a more satisfying bite. -
Dried Fruits: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of chewiness.
These little bursts of sweetness will surprise you and elevate each turnover to new heights. -
Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to your filling for a unique flavor twist.
These warm spices enhance the comforting essence of the turnovers, making them feel even more nostalgic! -
Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Not only does it add a lovely chewiness, but it also pairs wonderfully with the sweet apple and cinnamon aromas. -
Savoury Option: How about cheese? Try adding a sprinkle of cream cheese or cheddar to the filling for a savory contrast.
This unexpected twist makes for a delightful blend of flavors perfect for a brunch spread. -
Caramel Treat: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the warm turnovers before serving for a decadent finish.
This sweet addition transforms an already delicious treat into an irresistible dessert. If you’re in the mood for more sweet flavors, consider pairing these with a refreshing Green Apple Mocktail to balance the taste! -
Glaze Finish: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk for a simple glaze to drizzle over the baked turnovers.
This sweet topping adds an eye-catching finish and a delightful sweetness that complements the apple filling perfectly.
With these variations, your apple turnovers will never feel the same twice, keeping family and friends coming back for more delicious bites!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead for busy mornings! You can prepare the apple filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply cool the filling, store it in an airtight container, and keep your pie dough wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the turnovers quickly by spooning the filling onto the dough, sealing them up, and following the baking instructions. This method ensures that your turnovers will be just as delicious and flaky, saving you valuable time while still delivering that homemade goodness!
What to Serve with Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust
Indulging in these flaky pastries inspires a delightful meal, filled with warm flavors and sweet treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and subtle flavor enhance the sweet apple filling, making each bite an indulgent experience.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A rich, buttery caramel sauce adds a luscious finish, enhancing the comforting warmth of the apple turnovers.
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Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea balances the sweetness and offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
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Spiced Cider: The warm spices in cider harmonize beautifully with cinnamon and apple, creating a perfect fall-inspired duo.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream contrasts with the flaky crust, adding a touch of elegance to a casual dessert.
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Sautéed Cinnamon Apples: For a delicious twist, serve warm cinnamon apples alongside, echoing the delicious stuffing inside the turnovers.
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Crunchy Granola: Sprinkling a bit of granola adds a satisfying crunch and a wholesome element, perfect for breakfast pairings.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, provides an interesting savory contrast to the sweet turnovers.
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Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote adds vibrant color and a burst of flavor that complements apple beautifully.
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Nutty Granola Bars: Pack these for kids’ snacks or serve with turnovers for added texture and wholesome energy.
Expert Tips for Best Apple Turnovers
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Cool Filling: Allow the apple filling to cool completely before filling the dough. This prevents soggy turnovers and ensures a flaky crust.
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Avoid Overfilling: Don’t overstuff your turnovers; keep filling to 1/4 to 1/3 cup. This simple trick prevents any messy leaks during baking.
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Vent for Success: Always cut small slits on top of each turnover. This step allows steam to escape, ensuring a crisp outer layer instead of a soggy one.
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Perfect Egg Wash: For a golden finish, brush the tops of the turnovers with beaten egg. A sprinkle of sugar on top adds an enticing crunch to the Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust.
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Baking Time Check: Keep an eye on your turnovers in the oven. Baking for 25 minutes should do the trick, but every oven varies slightly, so watch for that perfect golden brown.
Storage Tips for Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust
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Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep them away from direct sunlight to avoid softening the crust.
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Fridge: To prolong storage, refrigerate your apple turnovers for up to 5 days. Note that the crust may soften slightly when stored in the fridge, but the flavor will still delight.
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Freezer: Freeze baked turnovers for up to 3 months for a delightful treat anytime. Alternatively, freeze unbaked, assembled turnovers to pop in the oven fresh whenever the craving strikes.
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Reheating: To restore crispiness, warm the turnovers in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes. Microwaving for 20-30 seconds is quicker but may leave the crust less crispy. Enjoy your Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust warm!
Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are my go-to because they add the perfect tartness and hold their shape beautifully during baking. However, feel free to swap them out for Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly, especially if using sweeter varieties.
How should I store leftover apple turnovers?
For best results, store your leftover Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just a heads-up – while refrigeration might affect the crust’s crispiness, the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I freeze baked or unbaked turnovers?
Very! You can freeze baked apple turnovers for up to 3 months. To freeze unbaked, assembled turnovers, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What should I do if my pastry turns out soggy?
No worries—this happens! To avoid sogginess, ensure your apple filling has cooled completely before filling the dough. Additionally, cutting slits on top of each turnover allows steam to escape during baking, which helps keep them crisp. If you still face issues, try reducing the apple filling’s moisture by cooking it a little longer.
Is there a way to make these turnovers pet-friendly?
Absolutely! While the ingredients in this recipe are not suitable for pets (especially those containing sugar and cinnamon), you can create a pet-friendly version using unsweetened apples, plain dough, and omitting spices. Just be sure to consult with your vet if you’re introducing new treats to your furry friend!
How can I reheat leftovers to keep them crispy?
To restore the delectable crispiness of your turnovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 5-8 minutes. This reheating method helps achieve that flaky texture you love. Microwaving them for about 20-30 seconds is faster but may leave the crust softer. Enjoy the warmth!
Flaky Best Apple Turnovers with Pie Crust for Sweet Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Core and slice 3 Granny Smith apples into small, uniform pieces.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan and add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie dough and divide it into 6 equal circles about 5-6 inches in diameter.
- Spoon 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each dough circle.
- Fold each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
- Place the sealed turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cut small slits on top.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle granulated sugar on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
