Apple turnovers are easy, handheld puff pastry pies made with a cinnamon apple filling. They are a nostalgic bake and one of the simplest desserts to make. This version is dairy free with gluten free and vegan options and are just perfect for a cosy winter dessert with a scoop of ice cream.
Prepare the filling. Place the chopped apples into a small pot on the stove. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and 2-4 tablespoons of water.
Bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat to gently simmer for 5-8 minutes, or until the apples are just tender. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the apple mixture to cool completely.
When the apples are nearly cooled, take the puff pastry sheets out of the freezer and let them defrost on the kitchen bench. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Assemble the turnovers. Cut each defrosted pastry sheet into 4 squares and place a small scoop of the cooled apple mixture in the centre of each square. Brush the edges of each square with beaten egg (or dairy free milk) and fold the squares over to form triangles and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Repeat until all the filling is used.
Place the turnovers on a lined baking tray and brush the tops with more dairy-free milk or beaten egg. Cut a small slit in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape.
Place the turnovers on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven until the tops are golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Serve the apple turnovers warm in a bowl with a scoop of ice cream and a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce.
Notes
Apples: Depending on the size of your apples, you'll need 2-3 to get 2 cups of chopped apples.Brown Sugar: This is a sweet dessert, but if you prefer a more tart apple flavour, reduce the brown sugar to ⅓ cup.Vegan Option: Use dairy free milk to brush the pastries rather than a beaten egg.Gluten Free Option: Substitute the pastry with your favourite gluten-free puff pastry.