Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a warm, sweet treat? Caramel apple turnovers are the perfect blend of gooey caramel and crisp apples, all wrapped in flaky pastry. They are simple to make and sure to impress your friends and family. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite recipe, tips, and tricks to make your turnovers shine. Let’s dive in and create something irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets
– 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– A pinch of salt
You need a few simple ingredients to make caramel apple turnovers. Start with two large apples. I love using Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Next, grab a cup of caramel sauce. You can buy this at a store or make your own.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth and a tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness. The lemon juice also helps keep the apples fresh. You will also need a package of frozen puff pastry sheets. This is the key to that flaky texture we all love.
Don’t forget the egg! You will beat it to make an egg wash. This helps the turnovers turn golden when baking. Measure out two tablespoons of brown sugar and one tablespoon of all-purpose flour. These add sweetness and help thicken the filling. Lastly, just a pinch of salt will balance all the flavors.
With these ingredients, you will create a warm and sweet treat that everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pastry
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare baking sheet with parchment paper.
Making the Filling
– In a bowl, combine:
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– A pinch of salt
– Mix well until apples are coated.
Assembling the Turnovers
– Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface.
– Cut each sheet into 4×4 inch squares.
– Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center of each square.
– Fold the square diagonally to form a triangle.
– Seal edges by pressing down with a fork.
– Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Baking the Turnovers
– Place turnovers on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
– Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These steps make it easy to create warm, sweet caramel apple turnovers. Enjoy the delightful taste!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Right Apples
Choose apples that give the best taste. I suggest using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith offers a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp brings sweet and juicy flavors. Mixing both types gives you a great balance. This blend makes the filling rich and tasty, ensuring a perfect bite.
Achieving Perfect Turnovers
To seal edges well, press down firmly with a fork. This keeps the filling inside. Make sure to fold the pastry tightly. For even baking, space the turnovers apart on the baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate and gives them a nice, golden color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turnovers warm for the best flavor. Dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness. Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. Enjoying them fresh from the oven makes every bite special!
Variations
Additions to the Filling
You can make your caramel apple turnovers even better with fun extras. Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. You can also mix in some raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist. These add-ins will bring new flavors to your turnovers.
If you want to switch up the sauce, consider using chocolate or vanilla. A drizzle of melted chocolate can create a rich taste. Vanilla sauce adds a nice sweetness that pairs well with apples and caramel. Both options give you a chance to be creative with your toppings.
Pastry Variations
While puff pastry is great, you can also try different types of dough. Phyllo dough works well for a crispy and flaky texture. It can give your turnovers a unique crunch. You can also use traditional pie crust for a more classic taste. Each type of dough will change the final result, making it fun to experiment.
Dietary Adjustments
For those who need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free puff pastry. Many brands offer this choice, so you can enjoy the same flavors without the gluten.
If you’re vegan, you can make simple swaps. Use a plant-based caramel sauce and replace the egg wash with almond milk or soy milk. This way, everyone can enjoy caramel apple turnovers, no matter their diet.
Storage Info
Storing Turnovers
To keep your caramel apple turnovers fresh, use these tips:
– Let them cool completely before storage.
– Place leftovers in an airtight container.
– For short-term storage, keep them at room temperature for up to two days.
– For long-term storage, freeze them. Wrap each turnover in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
To maintain crispness:
– Reheat before serving.
– Avoid stacking them in the container, as this can make them soggy.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your turnovers for the best results:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Place turnovers on a baking sheet.
– Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp.
Common mistakes to avoid:
– Don’t microwave them; this makes them chewy and soggy.
– Avoid reheating from frozen without thawing, as this can lead to uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I make caramel apple turnovers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day before. Just keep it in the fridge. For the pastry, you can cut the squares early. Store them in the fridge too. When you are ready, fill and bake them. This saves time and makes baking easier.
What kind of caramel sauce is best to use?
You can use store-bought caramel sauce for ease. Look for brands that taste good. Homemade caramel sauce can be richer and more fun to make. If you have time, try making it. Both options work well in this recipe.
How do I know when my turnovers are done?
The turnovers are done when they look golden brown. You should see them puffed up nicely. If the outer crust is crisp, they are ready to enjoy. A good sign is the smell of warm apple and caramel filling.
Can I freeze turnovers?
Yes, you can freeze turnovers before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake, do not thaw them first. Bake for a few extra minutes until golden.
Caramel apple turnovers are simple and delicious. We covered key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips to make them perfect. You can choose the right apples and even try fun variations. Remember to store your turnovers well to keep them fresh. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these treats. They are sure to impress family and friends.
