Apple turnovers are a classic dessert that combines the flaky goodness of pastry with the tender sweetness of apples. However, the key to making the perfect apple turnover lies in cooking the apples just right. In this article, we will explore the art of cooking apples for apple turnovers, including the best varieties to use, how to prepare them, and the different cooking methods you can employ.
Choosing the Right Apples
When it comes to making apple turnovers, the type of apple you use can make all the difference. You want apples that are sweet, tender, and hold their shape well when cooked. Some of the best varieties for apple turnovers include:
- Granny Smith: Known for their green skin and tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for apple turnovers. They hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Honeycrisp: With their sweet flavor and crisp texture, Honeycrisp apples are a popular choice for apple turnovers. They cook down quickly and add a touch of sweetness to the filling.
Preparing the Apples
Before you start cooking your apples, you need to prepare them properly. This involves peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into small pieces.
Peeling and Coring the Apples
To peel and core the apples, you can use a vegetable peeler and a melon baller or a paring knife. Simply peel the apples in a spiral motion, starting from the top and working your way around the fruit. Then, use the melon baller or paring knife to remove the core and any seeds.
Chopping the Apples
Once the apples are peeled and cored, chop them into small pieces. You want the apples to be small enough to cook quickly and evenly, but not so small that they become mushy. A good rule of thumb is to chop the apples into pieces that are about 1/2 inch in size.
Cooking the Apples
There are several ways to cook apples for apple turnovers, including sautéing, boiling, and baking. Each method produces a slightly different result, so it’s worth experimenting to find the one that works best for you.
Sautéing the Apples
Sautéing is a great way to cook apples quickly and add a touch of caramelized flavor to the filling. To sauté the apples, heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on the variety of apple and the heat level.
Boiling the Apples
Boiling is a simple way to cook apples, and it’s a great method if you’re short on time. To boil the apples, place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the apples until they are tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the variety of apple and the heat level.
Baking the Apples
Baking is a great way to cook apples if you want to add a touch of sweetness to the filling. To bake the apples, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chopped apples in a baking dish and add a tablespoon of sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Toss the apples to coat them evenly, then bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
Adding Spices and Sweeteners
Once the apples are cooked, you can add spices and sweeteners to taste. Some popular options include cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, as well as sugar, honey, and maple syrup.
Spices
Spices can add a lot of depth and warmth to the apple filling. Some popular options include:
| Spice | Description |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon | A warm, sweet spice that pairs perfectly with apples. |
| Nutmeg | A slightly sweet, nutty spice that adds depth to the filling. |
| Allspice | A warm, spicy spice that adds a touch of sweetness to the filling. |
Sweeteners
Sweeteners can add a touch of sweetness to the apple filling. Some popular options include:
| Sweetener | Description |
|---|---|
| Sugar | A classic sweetener that pairs perfectly with apples. |
| Honey | A natural sweetener that adds a touch of warmth to the filling. |
| Maple syrup | A sweet, sticky liquid that adds a touch of sweetness to the filling. |
Assembling the Turnovers
Once the apples are cooked and the spices and sweeteners are added, it’s time to assemble the turnovers. To do this, simply place a spoonful of the apple filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Brush the edges with a little water, then fold the other half of the pastry over the filling. Press the edges together to seal the turnover, then use a knife or a pastry brush to create a decorative edge.
Baking the Turnovers
To bake the turnovers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each turnover. Brush the tops with a little milk or beaten egg, then bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Conclusion
Cooking apples for apple turnovers is an art that requires a little patience and practice. By choosing the right variety of apple, preparing them properly, and cooking them to perfection, you can create a delicious and flaky pastry that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, we hope this article has provided you with the tips and techniques you need to make the perfect apple turnovers.
What are the best types of apples to use for apple turnovers?
The best types of apples to use for apple turnovers are those that are sweet, tart, and hold their shape well when cooked. Some popular varieties include Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, and Honeycrisp. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for apple turnovers because of their tart flavor and firm texture, which holds up well to cooking.
When choosing apples for your turnovers, look for ones that are firm and have a sweet aroma. Avoid using overly ripe or mealy apples, as they can become too soft and mushy when cooked. You can also mix and match different varieties to create a unique flavor profile. For example, combining sweet Golden Delicious apples with tart Granny Smith apples can create a delicious balance of flavors.
How do I peel and chop the apples for the filling?
To peel and chop the apples for the filling, start by washing the apples thoroughly and drying them with a clean towel. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, taking care to remove any blemishes or bruises. Next, chop the apples into small, uniform pieces, making sure to remove any seeds or cores.
The size of the apple pieces will depend on the desired texture of the filling. If you prefer a smooth filling, chop the apples into very small pieces or even puree them in a blender or food processor. If you prefer a chunkier filling, chop the apples into slightly larger pieces. Be sure to chop the apples just before using them, as they can turn brown quickly when exposed to air.
How do I prevent the apples from turning brown during preparation?
To prevent the apples from turning brown during preparation, sprinkle them with lemon juice or ascorbic acid as soon as you chop them. The acidity of the lemon juice will help to slow down the browning process, keeping the apples looking fresh and appetizing.
You can also use other methods to prevent browning, such as soaking the chopped apples in cold water with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. However, be sure to drain the apples thoroughly before using them in the filling, as excess moisture can make the pastry soggy.
What is the best way to cook the apples for the filling?
The best way to cook the apples for the filling is to sauté them in a pan with a small amount of butter or oil until they are tender and lightly caramelized. This method helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the apples and adds a rich, depth of flavor to the filling.
To cook the apples, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apples as they cook to enhance the flavor.
How do I know when the apples are cooked to perfection?
To determine if the apples are cooked to perfection, check them for tenderness and flavor. The apples should be tender and easily pierced with a fork, but still retain some of their texture and crunch. They should also have a rich, caramelized flavor and a deep, golden brown color.
If you prefer a softer filling, cook the apples for a few minutes longer until they are very tender and easily mashed. However, be careful not to overcook the apples, as they can become too soft and mushy.
Can I use pre-cooked or canned apples for the filling?
While it is possible to use pre-cooked or canned apples for the filling, it is not recommended. Pre-cooked or canned apples can be too soft and mushy, and may lack the rich, caramelized flavor of freshly cooked apples.
Using pre-cooked or canned apples can also affect the texture of the filling, making it too runny or soggy. Freshly cooked apples, on the other hand, will provide a better texture and flavor to the filling, making the turnovers more delicious and satisfying.
How do I store leftover apple turnovers?
To store leftover apple turnovers, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container. You can store the turnovers at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the turnovers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen turnovers to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat the turnovers, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.