Easy Apple Turnovers

Kelly Senyei

Posted: October 11, 2018
Updated: August 28, 2021

from 81 votes
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214 Comments

Transform store-bought puff pastry into a family favorite recipe for Easy Apple Turnovers.

Easy Apple Turnovers on serving plate with whipped cream

We are fresh off the celebration of the 10-year anniversary of Just a Taste. In many ways it feels like a lifetime ago when I decided to start sharing my mom’s beloved recipes, but in many other ways, it all still feels so new.

I think the later is attributed to just how quickly technology changes and advances these days. When I published my first blog post in 2008, Instagram didn’t exist. In fact, it still wouldn’t exist until an entire two years later. Mind. Blown.

Apple Turnover filling in clear bowl

And on the I’m-feeling-old front, I’m headed east this weekend for my 10-year Northwestern reunion. The city of Chicago will forever hold a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to explore the culinary scene a decade after my college glory days.

Square puff pastry dough with apple turnover filling

With so many anniversaries and reunions to celebrate (including a 4-year wedding anniversary today!), I can think of no better sweet treat than something that screams “celebrate the season!” And right now, I am all about the apples, from caramel apples and apple tarts to apple fritter rings and now, Easy Apple Turnovers.

Brushing egg wash on top of apple turnovers

I’ve been a longtime fan of transforming the ever-so-reliable store-bought puff pastry into various creations, both sweet and savory. But there’s just something about a classic fruit dressed simply with sugar and spices tucked inside a pastry pocket.

The crystal sanding sugar adds an optional but super satisfying crunch to every bite. And of course, Secret Ingredient Whipped Cream is a must for dipping and dunking!

Easy Apple Turnovers on serving plate next to a small bowl with whipped cream

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Dessert

Easy Apple Turnovers

Transform store-bought puff pastry into a family favorite recipe for Easy Apple Turnovers. These light and flaky pockets are bursting with fresh flavor and only take minutes to make.
Author: Kelly Senyei
4.92 from 81 votes
Easy Apple Turnovers on serving plate with whipped cream
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings 8 turnovers
Print Recipe

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups small diced (peeled) apples
  • 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 (17.3-oz.) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
  • Flour, for dusting work surface
  • 1 large egg, whisked
  • Crystal sanding sugar (optional)

Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpats.
  • In a large bowl, stir together the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon and lemon juice.
  • Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the pastry to seal any perforations then cut each sheet into 4 squares.
  • Using a slotted spoon, scoop a portion of the apple mixture into the center of each puff pastry square then fold the pastry across diagonally to form triangles. Using a fork, crimp together the edges then transfer the turnovers to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
  • Cut three small slits in the tops of each turnover then brush them with the egg. Sprinkle the turnovers with the sanding sugar (optional).
  • Bake the turnovers for 17 to 20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffed. Transfers the turnovers to a rack to cool then serve warm or at room temperature. 
  • ★ Did you make this recipe? Don't forget to give it a star rating below!

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal, Carbohydrates: 19g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Cholesterol: 20mg, Sodium: 84mg, Potassium: 59mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 45IU, Vitamin C: 2.1mg, Calcium: 8mg, Iron: 0.9mg

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Recipe by Kelly Senyei of Just a Taste. Please do not reprint this recipe without my permission. If you'd like to feature this recipe on your site, please rewrite the method of preparation and link to this post as the original source.

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Comments

    1. Hi Emily! I’d recommend freezing them first and then baking off as needed, but you may need to increase the bake time.

      Reply

  11. I’m going to make these. Was wondering if once the turnovers have cooled if I could drizzle (boiled and sifted) apricot jam over the tops?

    Reply

  12. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe! I followed the recipe precisely except I used my own homemade puff pastry. I will definitely make this again! Thank you!

    Reply

  13. 5 stars
    Just want to say the receipt was fantastic and the apple turnovers were absolutely amazing. Thanks for a great receipt so simple and ever so tasty.

    Reply

  15. We have a large family. With my grand babies there are 13 of us. Would it be possible to make this in a sheet pan like apple slices?

    Reply

  16. 5 stars
    Went to Apple Hill in Placerville ca. Came back with Apple and had puff pastry, so why not. Never made before. Super easy. Waiting for for them to come out of the oven. Can’t wait. Thanks for easy recipe.

    Reply

  19. 5 stars
    So easy and delicious. I added double the brown sugar as I like my apples sweet. Thanks for a great recipe

    Reply

  22. I made these and they were delicious but found the puff pastry a bit soft. any suggestions to make it flakier?

    Reply

    2. 5 stars
      Wow these were beautiful. I did however add a couple of spices (nutmeg & Clove) And I also didn’t have lemon, so I squeezed some fresh orange juice instead.

      Then I mixed everything up and let it sit before putting it on a strainer to make it easier for the little one who “helped” mix and prep the turnovers.

      Quick easy and fun for both my 21m old and I. The entire family really enjoyed and will be making these in the future for parties and family gatherings. Just beautiful and delightful.

      Reply

  24. 5 stars
    Seriously good!! I had one sheet of puff pastry and some apples that were starting to turn soft. I halved the recipe and didn’t read the part about using slotted spoon but nothing leaked out while baking. I will definitely make these again. Can’t wait to try some of your other recipes. Thank you.

    Reply

  27. Thank you Lovely apple turnovers husband was very pleased with them he thinks I can now go on the great British bake off lol xx

    Reply

  31. 5 stars
    Made these today.
    Turned out grrreat!!
    Sprinkled raw sugar on top, don’t really know what sanding sugar is. They yummy anyway. thanks….

    Reply

    1. Hi Ann-marie – My favorite apple variety to use in this recipe is Granny Smith but any variety will work! :)

      Reply

    1. That’ll work, April! The turnovers are best when enjoyed within a day of baking them, but they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. :)

      Reply

  42. I’m considering using Paisley Farm sliced apples (for convenience) from the jar that I purchased at Costco. Any tips and/or modifications I should know before I follow your recipe?

    Reply

    1. Hi Lou! I’d recommend freezing them first and then baking off as needed, but you may need to increase the bake time.

      Reply

  46. I am not a dumb cook, but am inexperienced with puff pastry.

    Confusing directions, what does this mean?
    “1 (17.3-oz.) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed”
    1 whole package or 2 thin sheets of pastry?
    or the two rolls of pastry that come in the package?

    I thawed the whole package. Am I just using 2 thin sheets?
    If it just two sheets, why did you say “1 package”?

    Also confusing-you say “Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured work surface”
    Sounds like I stack the sheets and roll them together, or
    do I roll them out separately and use one sheet each for 4 turnovers?
    Is that enough pastry?

    Reply

    1. Hi Annette! You’ll want to use both sheets contained within one, 17.3-oz. package of frozen puff pastry. Any brand will work in this recipe, but I prefer Pepperidge Farm. Each sheet should be gently rolled over to seal any perforations then cut each sheet into 4 squares (you will have a total of 8 squares, which will make 8 turnovers). I hope this helps!

      Reply

  48. 5 stars
    My first time working with puff pastry and came out great! Will definitely make again. How would you store them after you bake? I was thinking a lidded container would be fine?

    Reply

    1. Hi Sam! The turnovers are best when enjoyed within a day of baking them, but they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. :)

      Reply

  49. 5 stars
    Made these last night, so easy and delicious! Nothing left but crumbs & requests that I make them again!

    Reply

  52. 5 stars
    Grandkids went ApplePicking in NC this week–brought me Granny Smith and Honey Crisp. I combined the 2 varieties of apples ( I am usually Granny Smith only for baking). Used your recipe to the letter with exception of adding 1/4 tea. fresh grated Nutmeg. I did use egg wash with Sanding Sugar I happened to have from a delightful King Arthur gift bag.
    I whipped up 2 cups of cream with a little 10X sugar and cinnamon added to have on the side. Nothing left but flakes of pastry and the empty platter.
    This is a ‘keeper recipe’–thank you !

    Reply

    1. Hi Ila! I’d recommend freezing them first and then baking off as needed, but you may need to increase the bake time.

      Reply

  54. 5 stars
    1st time making apple turnovers ..came put great !! Daughter 9 helped as well she was really pleased with outcome as well..

    Reply

  56. 5 stars
    Really good and straightforward recipe! Easily cooked to perfection and enjoyed very much by my husband!

    Reply

  57. 5 stars
    I made these last night with some Kanzi apples that were turning and they came out so good! Such a quick and simple recipe, we liked them even more once they’d been in the fridge overnight and topped with some cream :)

    Reply

  58. 5 stars
    This is a very helpful website it has improved my time in the kitchen thankfully to you and carry on the good work

    Reply

    1. Hi Anne! Crystal sanding sugar is large crystal sugar usually found by the sprinkles in most major grocery stores. :)

      Reply

  62. 5 stars
    I’ve made these a few times, and now they’ve become a favorite for my husband. The sanding sugar really does make a big difference!

    Reply

  64. 5 stars
    Easy to follow..and
    So yummy!! I made them today and we all loved them. (husband and kids).
    Since it’s a cold night they had it with custard..i had them with yogurt..but ice cream would go also well.
    Thanks a lot for sharing. :-)

    Reply

  67. 5 stars
    Very easy to make for a novice and tasted delicious. Used up apples and raspberries. Used normal sugar and they tasted lovely. Thank you

    Reply

  70. 5 stars
    Made these tonight with my 12 y.o son and they were brilliant – so easy to make and tasted wonderful. I made 1 & 1/2 times the recipe and made them twice the size (puff pastry sheet cut in half diagonally, then folded in half to make 2 turnovers), sprinkled with regular white sugar and served with icecream. Made 6 large turnovers.

    Reply

  71. 5 stars
    I made these today, they were so easy to make and look and taste fabulous!
    How long will they keep and what’s the best way of storing them?

    Reply

    1. I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Fiona! The turnovers are best when enjoyed within a day of baking them, but they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.

      Reply

  72. Can you use white sugar or caster sugar instead of brown sugar? And is it caster sugar on top? I have lots of apples to use cause my parents gave them me lol

    Reply

    1. Hi Annabel! White sugar will work for the apple mixture and the tops are sprinkled with crystal sanding sugar (a large crystal sugar).

      Reply

  74. 5 stars
    The apple puff is so delicious! I cut down the sugar by half and doubled the cinnamon. And I made my own puff pastry using Baking a Moment recipe, it turn out great. I mange to use up all the puff pastry I made. I made the puff pastry the night before and put it in the fridge. I let the dough thaw before using it. I put half the dough in the fridge while I was working with the other half, to keep it cold. And the last thing I change was I change the egg wash to flaxseed meal and water. The puffs tasted great warm, and is great for breakfast.

    Reply

  76. 4 stars
    Loved the simplicity of the recipe. Plus I was able to use up the one sheet of puff pastry I had in the freezer (halved the other ingredients). Next time I might use a little more brown sugar or use a sweeter apple.

    Reply

    1. I’m thrilled you enjoyed the recipe, Linda! My favorite apple variety to use in this recipe is Granny Smith :)

      Reply

  78. Is it okay if I tried this with thawed paratha dough? My parents tried it before and it came out pretty good, but for this recipe is it okay?

    Reply

    1. Hi Angel – I’ve only ever made this recipe using a puff pastry, so I can’t say with certainty how it would turn out.

      Reply

  79. 5 stars
    Super simple recipe! We purchased both honeycrisp and fuji apples that didn’t have much taste so instead of throwing them out we made these. They were delicious!! Instead of using the granulated sugar, we powdered them with confectioners sugar. This was a big hit with the family and neighbors.

    Reply

    1. Hi Anne-Marie! The turnovers are best when enjoyed within a day of baking them, but they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.

      Reply

  81. 5 stars
    Brilliant, easy recipe, thank you! I’ve made these twice now. My Mum even thought they were shop-bought when I presented her with one!!!!

    Reply

  82. My son whose very fussy even commented how lovely these tasted. 10 out of 10. Great easy recipe. Thank you. I’m just on with doing my 2nd batch

    Reply

  83. 5 stars
    I made these for an event but used Goya discs instead of puff pastry because I made over 100. Every one loved them and they have been requested again.

    Thanks for the recipe.

    Reply

  84. 4 stars
    LOVED THESEE!!!
    MY FAMILY ATE THESE SO FAST WOULD ABSOLUTLEY RECCOMED MAKING THIS. only downside is that it becomes soggy, any suggestions to help me get rid of this please?

    Reply

  85. this is the best apple turnover ever! thank you for giving me this recipe 10/10 would make again!
    But sometimes it becomes really soggy and soft but it still tastes good i made this with my family and they loved it thanks!
    xoxoxo

    Reply

  86. 5 stars
    My family just loves these turnovers. Made them for Christmas Eve morning at the request of my family. Guess we’re starting a new Christmas tradition.

    Reply

  88. 5 stars
    First time making my favorite dessert. I was amazed how easy it was to follow your recipe. Thank you so much. I will no longer buy them at the local bakery. I will make them from now on.

    Reply

  91. Perfect and easy recipe! So delicious! I don’t know what sanding sugar is so I used demerara sugar on top and they were amazing! We only got 2 as friends and family claimed the rest so have just made a second batch and equally satisfied with them!

    Reply

  93. 4 stars
    Definitely were delicious, but since I used Granny Smith apples, they could have used an additional tablespoon of sugar as they were quite tangy. I’m not a fan of sugar granules on top, so I topped them off with powdered sugar. Will definitely make them again with additional sugar. Thank you for sharing your recipe.

    Reply

  97. 5 stars
    This looks super easy to make a ton of. I’m gonna try making 100 for church this Sunday. Awesome for a bake sale too.

    Reply

  99. 5 stars
    This was a super easy, quick, no fuss & delicious recipe with a beautiful presentation. I used a round pastry dough instead of rectangular and it worked perfectly well. I will definitely make this again (already tomorrow) as there was enough filling to make another round. I really recommend this recipe!

    Reply

  100. Today I saw you on Home & Family. You were great . I look so forward to making the turn overs . Will let you know how they turn out , thank you !

    Reply

    1. Hi Betty! I’d recommend freezing them first and then baking off as needed, but you may need to increase the bake time.

      Reply

  102. 5 stars
    I just tried these for the first time. OMG….they were INCREDIBLE!!!

    The only problem I had was that the puff pastry dough was stuck together as I tried to unroll it from the package. I used a rolling pin to try to get it back to a rectangle, but the results weren’t too good. Is this usual for the dough to stick together like that?

    This is just one more of your recipes that has come out so fantastic, Kelly.

    Reply

  105. 5 stars
    I made these turnovers and they were fantastic! Easy and yummy!
    I’ve made 2 dozens of turnovers. We liked them so much we gave some to our neighbors right out of the oven.
    We’ll be making more today!
    Can’t wait to make the peach turnovers.

    Reply

  106. My kitchen smells so yummy right now . 3 turnovers have already walked out the door and finally i get to taste !!
    I will be making these again soon. Must find a store where the puff pastry is less expensive tho’… fortunately apples are very reasonable and these are a snap to make. Thank you !!

    Reply