As an apple lover, I’ve always been drawn to the sweet, tangy taste of a freshly baked apple turnover. The comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples filling the entire house, that buttery, flaky crust – It’s the essence of home, isn’t it? Can you think of anything that screams ‘cozy and comforting’ more than a warm apple turnover straight from the oven?
It’s a lot like disappearing into a good book. You know that feeling when you’re so caught up in a story that you lose all sense of time? Baking apple turnovers is the culinary equivalent to that. You’re invested, engrossed in the process, and the final result is as satisfying as a thrilling plot twist.
The Story Behind Apple Turnovers
Apple turnovers have a storied history, dating back to the 19th century. They were often referred to as ‘hand pies,’ a portable version of the traditional apple pie. These sweet treats quickly became a beloved staple in American households, especially in the fall when apples were abundant.
They’re still a beloved dessert today, evoking nostalgic memories of childhood. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a Sunday brunch, or as a sweet treat after dinner, apple turnovers continue to be a favourite across generations.
Choosing the Right Apples
Just as you would choose a protagonist for a story, selecting the right apples is crucial for your apple turnover recipe. While any apple variety will do, some are better suited for baking than others. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice because of their tartness, which balances out the sweetness of the filling.
Golden Delicious apples are another great option, offering a sweet, mild flavor that pairs well with the spices. Other good options include Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Northern Spy. In the end, it’s all about personal preference and what you have available.
Creating the Perfect Pastry
The pastry is the binding factor in this delightful dessert, much like the narrative in a story. It needs to be just right. You want a crust that’s flaky, buttery, and light. Using cold butter and keeping the dough chilled at all times helps achieve this texture.
Remember, don’t overwork the dough! This can lead to a tough pastry. Treat it gently, like you’re coaxing the plot of a story to unfurl naturally, without force.
How to Make Apple Turnovers
Ingredients
- For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
- For the Filling:
- 2-3 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pastry dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.
- For the filling, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook until the apples are softened and the mixture is thickened, about 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into squares. Spoon the apple filling onto one side of each square, fold over the dough to form a triangle, and seal the edges with a fork.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
The Time and Nutrition Facts
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 300