Making Easy Apple Turnovers

Making Easy Apple Turnovers Using Canned Apples

Apple turnovers are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed anytime, whether as a breakfast pastry, a snack, or a comforting dessert. While homemade turnovers are usually made with fresh apples, using canned apples simplifies the process significantly without compromising on flavor. This recipe for easy apple turnovers is perfect for home cooks who want to enjoy a quick, delicious pastry without the hassle of peeling, coring, and cooking fresh apples.

Why Use Canned Apples?

Using canned apples saves time and ensures a consistent texture and sweetness in your turnovers. Canned apples are pre-cooked and infused with syrup, giving them a tender and juicy quality that works well in pastries. They also eliminate the guesswork of seasoning, as most canned apples come with a balanced blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, adding depth of flavor with minimal effort.

Recipe Overview

This easy apple turnover recipe uses puff pastry for a flaky, buttery crust and canned apples for a sweet, perfectly spiced filling. The turnovers are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a delightful balance of crisp pastry and soft, flavorful apples. You can customize this recipe by adding a touch of lemon zest for brightness or drizzling the finished turnovers with a simple icing for extra sweetness.

Ingredients

Below is a detailed table of ingredients in both U.S. and Metric measurements:

Ingredient	U.S. Measure	Metric Measure
Puff pastry sheets	2 sheets (thawed)	2 sheets (thawed)
Canned apple filling	1 can (20 oz)	570 grams
Brown sugar (optional)	2 tablespoons	30 grams
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	5 grams
All-purpose flour	For dusting	For dusting
Egg (for egg wash)	1 large	1 large
Water	1 tablespoon	15 ml
Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)	1 tablespoon	15 grams

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets until they are slightly thinner and smoother. Cut each sheet into four equal squares.
3. Prepare the Filling: Open the canned apple filling and, if desired, mix in the brown sugar and cinnamon for extra flavor. If the canned apples are in large slices, consider chopping them into smaller pieces for easier filling.
4. Assemble the Turnovers: Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the turnovers to burst during baking.
5. Fold and Seal: Fold each pastry square diagonally to form a triangle. Use a fork to press and seal the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
6. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each turnover with the egg wash to help them achieve a golden color.
7. Sprinkle with Sugar: Sprinkle granulated sugar over the tops of the turnovers for added sweetness and crunch.
8. Bake: Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the turnovers from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm, or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Apple Turnovers

• Keep the Puff Pastry Cold: Puff pastry is easier to work with when it is cold. If it becomes too warm, it can be sticky and difficult to handle. If needed, place the pastry in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
• Customize Your Filling: Add extra spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the canned apples for a more personalized flavor. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also add a nice crunch.
• Don’t Overfill: Overfilling can cause the turnovers to burst open during baking, losing their filling and creating a mess. Stick to a modest amount of filling per square.
• Use an Air Fryer: For a quicker cooking method, consider using an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Optional Icing Drizzle

For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle your finished turnovers with a simple icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix 1 cup (120 grams) of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of milk and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled turnovers and let set before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Apple turnovers are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• For Breakfast: Serve warm with a side of yogurt or fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast treat.
• As a Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a satisfying dessert.
• On the Go: Apple turnovers are portable, making them a great option for picnics, road trips, or quick snacks.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.

If you prefer, you can freeze the unbaked turnovers for up to one month. Simply assemble them as directed, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Turnovers Open During Baking: If your turnovers open up during baking, make sure you are pressing the edges firmly with a fork. Sealing them well is crucial to keeping the filling intact.
• Pastry Not Puffing Up: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking, as a hot oven helps puff pastry rise correctly. Additionally, keeping the pastry cold right up until baking will improve the texture.
• Too Sweet or Not Sweet Enough: The sweetness of canned apples can vary. Taste your filling before assembling the turnovers, and adjust with a bit of lemon juice if too sweet, or additional sugar if not sweet enough.

Final Thoughts

Easy apple turnovers made with canned apples are a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert with minimal effort. Their warm, inviting aroma and delightful taste make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe provides a simple, quick path to enjoying homemade apple turnovers any day of the week.