Step 1: Prepare the Dough

If you’re using homemade rough puff pastry, make sure you’ve completed the refrigeration steps as outlined in your recipe. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, ensure that it has been thoroughly thawed. The dough should be kept cold before you work with it, so refrigerate it until you’re ready to shape the turnovers.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Begin by preparing the apple filling. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and your choice of granulated or brown sugar. Stir the mixture constantly for about 5 minutes. The apples will begin to soften and release their juices. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

While the filling cools, it’s time to shape the dough. If you’re using homemade dough, lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a 12-inch square. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into 9 even squares. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, unroll the sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into 4 squares, yielding 8 squares total. Place the dough squares onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Once the filling has cooled, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the apple mixture onto the center of each dough square. Carefully fold one corner of each square over the filling to create a triangle shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, sealing the turnover securely. It’s normal if a little bit of the filling leaks out during this process—just be sure to press down firmly to prevent the apples from spilling out completely. Once the turnovers are shaped, refrigerate them for at least 15 minutes to ensure they hold their shape while baking. You can also refrigerate them for up to an hour if you prefer.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Egg Wash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Use a pastry brush to gently coat each turnover with the egg wash. This will give them a golden, glossy finish. Using a sharp knife or scissors, make 2 or 3 small slits in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape as they bake.

Step 6: Bake the Turnovers

Bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Be sure to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. As they bake, the buttery aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for these delicious pastries to finish. Don’t be alarmed if some butter leaks out from the homemade dough; this is perfectly normal.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the turnovers are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle each turnover with salted caramel before serving. The rich, buttery crust paired with the warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and the caramel sauce creates a heavenly combination that’s sure to please.