Name: Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cups apples (about 2 large honey crisp apples), peeled, cored, and finely diced; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ginger; ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets (thawed); 1 egg white (for egg wash); About 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 9 reviews

There is something utterly magical about Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe that brings comfort and joy to any kitchen. Imagine flaky, golden puff pastry pockets filled with tender, warmly spiced apples, kissed by a luscious vanilla glaze that melts on your tongue. This treat combines the crispness of fresh apples with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped in buttery layers that bake to perfection. Whether you’re making it for a cozy brunch, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy those apple dessert cravings with its irresistible charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Six triangular shaped dough pockets with a sealed edge pattern made by fork press are arranged in two vertical columns on a baking tray lined with white parchment paper. The dough is pale beige and looks soft and uncooked. The tray rests on a white marbled surface. In the upper left corner, there is a silver mixing bowl with a wooden chopstick and some cooked apple pieces with a brown sauce. Near the top center, a small white bowl holds ground cinnamon with a silver spoon inside it. To the right, a white bowl with light cream inside has a blue silicone brush resting on its rim. At the lower left, two apples and cinnamon sticks sit on the white marbled surface while a pink cloth drapes on the right edge of the scene. A number

The beauty of this Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the sweetness and texture of honey crisp apples to the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and vanilla that elevate the dish to cozy comfort food status.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the apples to tender perfection.
Honey crisp apples: Provide crisp texture and natural sweetness essential for the filling.
Brown sugar: Deep, molasses-like sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the spiced apple sauce so it doesn’t leak during baking.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning.
Cinnamon: The star spice that adds warmth and cozy depth.
Ground ginger and nutmeg: Subtle spices that boost complexity without overpowering the apples.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant sweetness both in the filling and the glaze.
Egg white: Used for egg wash to give the pastry that beautiful golden shine.
Frozen puff pastry sheets: The flaky, buttery foundation that makes these turnovers irresistible.
Powdered sugar: For the smooth vanilla glaze that finishes the turnovers with a sweet touch.
Milk: Helps create the perfect consistency for the vanilla glaze.

How to Make Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat, allowing its nuttiness to emerge. Add your diced apples and sauté gently for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to soften them just right. Then, toss in the brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, and cozy spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens and the apples have transformed into a tender, aromatic filling. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract—this little addition brings an unmistakable warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully before you set the filling aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare and Fill the Puff Pastry

Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry on parchment paper and cut it into four even squares. Don’t forget to keep the second sheet nice and chilled until you’re ready to use it. Brush the edges of each square lightly with a mix of egg white and water—this natural glue helps seal your turnovers so the delicious filling stays put. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple mixture onto the center of each square; this prevents any mess while baking and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Seal the Turnovers

Now, fold each pastry square diagonally to create triangles, enclosing that gooey apple filling inside. Use the tines of a fork to press and crimp the edges firmly, sealing every pocket. Don’t rush this step—well-sealed edges mean no leaks and beautifully puffed pastries. Then, give the tops a gentle brush of egg wash to craft a shiny, golden crust during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your turnovers on a lined baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven at 375ºF. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until each turnover puffs up and achieves a gorgeous light brown color. The smell wafting through your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible! Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool slightly—this step firms up the filling while you prepare the glaze.

Step 5: Drizzle the Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you reach a smooth, thick consistency. The glaze should be pourable yet thick enough to hold on the turnovers without running off. Drizzle this heavenly vanilla glaze generously over the warm turnovers and watch it glisten. Serve immediately for the best experience, savoring that perfect blend of flaky, fruity, and sweet flavors.

How to Serve Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe

The image shows seven golden brown, triangular pastries with a flaky texture arranged on a black wire cooling rack over a white marbled surface. A woman's hand holding a spoon is pouring a thick, white glaze onto the pastry in the center front. The glaze is dripping in smooth streams, creating a soft contrast against the crispy surface of the pastry. In the background, there are blurred shapes of a white bowl and part of an apple on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top just before the glaze sets can introduce a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the flakiness. A light dusting of cinnamon powder or freshly grated nutmeg can also enhance the warm spice notes already present in the turnovers.

Side Dishes

Pair these turnovers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a true indulgence. A cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced apple cider complements the flavors beautifully for a cozy, comforting treat any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange turnovers on a rustic wooden board adorned with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks. You might also serve them alongside a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping or add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate to the glaze for an extra layer of decadence. These ideas turn a simple pastry into a stunning centerpiece that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer, refrigerate them to extend freshness, but allow them to come back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to regain that delightful flakiness.

Freezing

This Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe also freezes beautifully. Place cooled turnovers in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat while preserving that crispy, buttery texture, warm turnovers in a 350ºF oven for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy. A quick bake refreshes the puff pastry, making each bite as delightful as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe?

Absolutely! While honey crisp apples offer a great balance of sweetness and firmness, varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji can also be used. Just be mindful of their tartness and adjust the sugar accordingly to keep the flavors balanced.

Is it possible to make these turnovers gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the puff pastry with a gluten-free version and use gluten-free flour for thickening if available. However, texture and flavor might differ slightly, so choose high-quality gluten-free products for the best results.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! The apple filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before filling the puff pastry to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have puff pastry sheets on hand?

Puff pastry’s unique flakiness is key to these turnovers, so it’s worth picking up if possible. If not, a sturdy pie crust or crescent roll dough could be used in a pinch, but the texture will vary.

How do I prevent the turnovers from leaking the apple filling?

The secret is in sealing the edges well with the egg wash and crimping them tightly with a fork. Also, using flour in the apple mixture thickens the filling, reducing the risk of leaks during baking.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the scoop on how to whip up this Sweet Apple Turnovers with Cinnamon and Vanilla Glaze Recipe, it’s time to bring a bit of cozy magic into your kitchen. These turnovers are incredibly satisfying with their flaky pastry, tender spiced apples, and that final drizzle of sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for sharing with friends or just treating yourself, they remind us how wonderful simple ingredients and a pinch of love can be. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become one of your favorite go-to desserts or snacks in no time!