counter create hit
Fb Img 1748735214144

Flaky Fruit-Filled Puff Pastry Turnovers

by
0 Shares
Pin
Share

Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast treat, a cozy dessert, or a delightful afternoon snack, few pastries hit the mark like flaky fruit-filled puff pastry turnovers. These hand-held pastries are easy to prepare, versatile with fillings, and irresistibly delicious thanks to their crisp, golden layers and warm, spiced fruit centers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a foolproof recipe that can be customized with your favorite fruits—from classic apples to juicy peaches or tart berries.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp water (to mix with egg)

For the Fruit Filling

  • 4 large apples (or other fruit: peaches, berries, pears)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

  • Coarse sugar for sprinkling
  • Powdered sugar glaze (1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tsp milk)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Fruit Filling

  1. Prep the Fruit: Peel, core, and chop the apples (or chosen fruit) into small, bite-sized pieces. Smaller cuts help the filling cook faster and stay tucked inside the pastry.
  2. Cook the Filling: In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the chopped fruit, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice.
  3. Simmer Gently: Stir frequently and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the fruit begins to soften and releases its juices.
  4. Thicken the Filling: Add flour or cornstarch to the fruit mixture. Stir until the juices thicken, forming a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat.
  5. Finish the Flavor: Stir in vanilla extract and set the filling aside to cool to room temperature before using. Warm filling can melt the pastry and prevent it from sealing properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll and Cut: Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into 6 even squares (12 total). A pizza cutter works well for clean lines.
  3. Fill the Pastry: Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the cooled fruit mixture into the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill.
  4. Shape and Seal: Fold each square into a triangle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Press the edges together firmly with a fork to seal.
  5. Egg Wash: Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
  6. Optional Crunch: Sprinkle with coarse sugar for added texture.
See also  Chop Suey Recipe

Step 3: Bake

  1. Arrange on Tray: Place the sealed turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1–2 inches apart.
  2. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and deeply golden brown.
  3. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Optional Glaze

If you’d like to add a finishing touch:

  1. Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp milk until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over slightly cooled turnovers.
  3. Let the glaze set before serving.

Variations

  • Peach Vanilla Turnovers: Swap apples for peaches and add a dash of vanilla bean paste.
  • Berry Lemon: Use a mix of fresh or frozen berries with lemon zest in place of cinnamon.
  • Savory Option: Replace the filling with sautéed mushrooms and cheese or spinach and feta.
  • Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the fruit filling for a crunchy twist.

Tips for Success

  • Keep Pastry Cold: Cold puff pastry puffs best. If the pastry warms while assembling, chill the turnovers for 10 minutes before baking.
  • Avoid Overfilling: Too much filling can cause the turnovers to burst open during baking.
  • Seal Properly: Use a fork or pastry crimper to press the edges tightly. A bit of water around the edges can help seal them securely.
  • Use Vent Holes: Cut a small slit in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting.
  • Glaze After Cooling: If using glaze, wait until the turnovers have cooled slightly so the glaze doesn’t melt off.

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful start to the day.
  • Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • On the Go: These turnovers are portable and perfect for lunchboxes or road trip snacks.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked turnovers for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.

Conclusion

These flaky puff pastry turnovers are the ultimate comfort treat—easy to make, versatile with ingredients, and always satisfying. Whether you prefer classic cinnamon-apple or want to try new fruity variations, this recipe is a must-have in your baking rotation. The golden, buttery layers combined with warm spiced fruit make them irresistible. Don’t forget to share (if you can bring yourself to), and savor the cozy joy in every bite.