Air Fryer Apple Turnovers: 7 Easy Steps to Delightful Crispness

Name: Air Fryer Apple Turnovers: 7 Easy Steps to Delightful Crispness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large apples, peeled and diced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 package puff pastry sheets; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 15, 2025

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Let me tell you, making Air Fryer Apple Turnovers is one of the easiest and most satisfying things you can do in the kitchen! Seriously, it’s like magic watching those golden, flaky pastries puff up and get all crispy in the air fryer. I remember the first time I made these for a cozy weekend brunch—my friends were raving about them! Apple desserts have this incredible way of bringing warmth and nostalgia, don’t you think? I mean, who can resist the sweet, spiced aroma of baked apples wafting through the house? Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful treat in under half an hour. Trust me, once you try these turnovers, they’ll become a go-to dessert for any occasion—or just a sweet snack when you need a little pick-me-up. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these air-fried treasures!

Air Fryer Apple Turnovers - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Air Fryer Apple Turnovers:

2 large apples, peeled and diced: Choose your favorite variety, like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Just make sure they’re diced into small pieces for easy filling!
1 tablespoon sugar: This helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples. You can adjust this based on your apple’s sweetness level.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: The warm spice that takes these turnovers to the next level! It pairs perfectly with the apples.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds a bright flavor and helps prevent the apples from browning while you prep.
1 package puff pastry sheets: You can find these in the freezer section of your grocery store. Make sure to thaw them according to package instructions before using.
1 egg, beaten: This will be your egg wash to give the turnovers that beautiful golden color when they cook.
Powdered sugar: A light dusting on top before serving adds a lovely touch of sweetness and makes them look irresistible!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Apple Turnovers

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first—let’s preheat that air fryer! Preheating is super important because it helps the turnovers cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This little step makes a big difference, trust me!

Prepare the Apple Filling

While your air fryer is heating up, it’s time to make that delicious apple filling! In a mixing bowl, toss together your diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The lemon juice not only adds a zesty kick but also keeps your apples from turning brown. If you’re using sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala, you might want to cut back a tad on the sugar. Just taste as you go! You want a nice balance of sweetness and spice that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Assemble the Turnovers

Now comes the fun part—assembling those turnovers! Roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut them into squares, about 4 inches on each side. Place a generous spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each square. Don’t overfill them, or you’ll have a mess on your hands! Fold the pastry over to create a triangle and press the edges firmly to seal. I like to crimp the edges with a fork for that cute finish, but you can just pinch them together if you prefer. Just make sure those edges are sealed tight so the filling doesn’t leak out during cooking!

Cooking the Turnovers

Once your turnovers are assembled, it’s time to cook! Place them in a single layer in your preheated air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching each other. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them in the last couple of minutes—every air fryer is a little different, and you want them to be perfectly crispy. When they look irresistible and smell amazing, you know they’re done!

Serve and Enjoy

Take those beauties out of the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, give them a light dusting of powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness and presentation. They look so pretty! You can serve them warm on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these Air Fryer Apple Turnovers! Each turnover is a delightful treat that packs a bit of everything you need to know:

Calories: Approximately 180 per turnover
Fat: About 6g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 200mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the types of apples you choose, how much sugar you use, and any additional toppings. It’s always a good idea to adjust to your preference and enjoy every bite guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use other fruits for turnovers?

Absolutely! While apples are the star of this Air Fryer Apple Turnovers recipe, you can easily switch things up with other fruits. Pears work beautifully, bringing a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon. Berries, like blueberries or raspberries, can add a tart twist, while peaches can bring a summery flair. Just remember to adjust the sugar depending on how sweet or tart your chosen fruit is. You can also consider mixing fruits for a fun flavor explosion. The possibilities are endless!

What type of apples are best for turnovers?

When it comes to apples for your turnovers, some varieties shine brighter than others! Granny Smith apples are a fantastic choice because they’re tart and hold their shape well during cooking. If you prefer sweeter options, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are delightful as they add natural sweetness and a juicy texture. Gala apples are also a good pick for a balance of sweetness and tartness. Feel free to mix and match your favorites to create a unique flavor profile!

Can I make these turnovers ahead of time?

You can certainly prepare these turnovers ahead of time! If you want to assemble them in advance, just keep them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a day or two. When you’re ready to cook, you can pop them straight into the air fryer without thawing. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, toss them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture—no one likes a soggy turnover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these Air Fryer Apple Turnovers in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them a perfect last-minute dessert or snack!
Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes involved, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen doing dishes for hours after. Just a bowl and your air fryer – it doesn’t get much easier!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and flaky pastry is simply irresistible. Each bite is like a cozy hug!
Healthy Dessert Alternative: Made with fresh fruits and less oil than traditional frying methods, these turnovers satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt!
Customizable: You can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste, whether you want to add nuts, switch up the spices, or even use different fruits!

Tips for Success

Let me share some of my go-to tips for perfecting those Air Fryer Apple Turnovers. Trust me, a little attention to detail can take your turnovers from good to absolutely amazing!

Ensure Even Cooking

One key to achieving perfectly cooked turnovers is to give them enough space in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them—make sure they’re in a single layer with a little breathing room. If your air fryer isn’t huge, you might need to cook in batches. This ensures that hot air circulates around each turnover, giving you that golden, crispy finish we all love!

Adjust Cooking Time

Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on your turnovers as they cook. If you’ve got a smaller or more powerful model, you might find that they cook faster or slower than the 10-12 minutes I recommend. It’s always a good idea to check them a couple of minutes early. You’re looking for that lovely golden brown color and a puffed-up appearance. If they need a little more time, just add a couple of minutes and keep checking!

Experiment with Flavors

Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans to your apple filling for a delightful crunch. Or, try swapping out the cinnamon for nutmeg or allspice if you’re feeling adventurous. A little vanilla extract can also amp up the flavor. The beauty of these turnovers is that they’re super versatile, so feel free to make them your own!

Check for Doneness

When you pull those turnovers out of the air fryer, give them a little press. They should feel firm and spring back slightly. If they’re soft and squishy, they might need a minute or two more. And remember, they will continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so don’t stress if they seem a tad undercooked; they’ll firm up as they cool!

Cool Before Serving

Finally, let your turnovers cool for a few minutes before digging in. It’s tempting, I know, but cooling helps the filling set a bit and makes for easier handling. Plus, you won’t burn your tongue on that delicious warm apple goodness!

Variations of Air Fryer Apple Turnovers

Now, let’s mix things up a bit with some fun variations of these Air Fryer Apple Turnovers! While the classic apple filling is absolutely divine, there are so many other delicious combinations you can try that will keep your taste buds dancing!

Berry Bliss Turnovers

Swap out the apples for some fresh or frozen berries! Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries make for a delightful filling. Just toss them with a bit of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice, and you’ve got yourself a berry explosion wrapped in flaky pastry. The juicy berries burst with flavor, making these turnovers perfect for summer gatherings!

Peachy Keen Turnovers

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more summery, try using diced peaches! Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with cinnamon, and I love adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. You can even mix in a touch of vanilla extract for a lovely aroma that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!

Nuts About Apples

Want to add some crunch? Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds with your apple filling. They add a delightful texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet apples. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix in well without overpowering the turnovers.

Spiced Up Turnovers

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with your spices! Instead of just cinnamon, try adding a dash of allspice, cardamom, or even a little ginger for a unique twist. Each spice will bring its own character to the turnovers, and trust me, your friends will love the surprise!

Chocolate Lovers Turnovers

For a decadent treat, add some chocolate chips to your apple filling! The melty chocolate combined with the warm, spiced apples creates a dessert that’s hard to resist. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate on top after baking for an extra indulgent finish!

No matter which variation you choose, these Air Fryer Apple Turnovers are sure to impress! The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to your cravings or what you have on hand. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious Air Fryer Apple Turnovers and keep them tasting fresh! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), here’s how to make sure they stay scrumptious.

Storing Leftovers

First off, let your turnovers cool completely before storing them. This step is super important because it prevents moisture from building up, which could make them soggy. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. You can stack them if needed, but I recommend using parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together. They’ll stay good in the fridge for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Freezing for Later

If you decide to freeze your apple turnovers, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. You can also bake them from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

Reheating for Crunchiness

To reheat your turnovers and maintain that lovely crispiness, the air fryer is your best friend! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the turnovers in the basket. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they don’t overcook. You want them to be warm and crispy, just like when they first came out of the fryer!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the turnovers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the pastry is crispy again.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Air Fryer Apple Turnovers any time you crave them, keeping that delightful flavor and texture intact. Happy snacking!