When it comes to breakfast, there's nothing quite like starting your day with a delicious and indulgent treat. And what better way to do that than with these mouth - watering puff pastry turnovers filled with tender apples and cream cheese? This is not just any ordinary apple dessert; it's a whole new spin that will surely become a staple in your breakfast routine.
Let's first talk about the star ingredients. Apples are a classic choice for desserts, and for good reason. They are not only sweet and juicy but also packed with nutrients. When cooked, they become tender and develop a wonderful flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy cream cheese. The combination of the tartness of the apples and the smoothness of the cream cheese creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is simply irresistible.
To begin making these turnovers, you'll need some puff pastry. Puff pastry is a versatile and easy - to - work - with ingredient that adds a flaky and buttery layer to the turnovers. You can either make your own puff pastry from scratch, which is a rewarding but time - consuming process, or you can opt for store - bought puff pastry, which is a convenient option. If you choose the store - bought version, make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
Next, prepare the apple filling. Start by peeling and coring the apples. You can use any variety of apples you like, but some popular choices for baking are Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. Cut the apples into small, bite - sized pieces. In a saucepan, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the apple pieces and a sprinkle of sugar. Stir the apples constantly as they cook, allowing them to soften and release their juices. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. Once the apples are tender but still hold their shape, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
While the apple filling is cooling, it's time to prepare the cream cheese mixture. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until it's smooth. Add a little sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and continue to beat until well - combined. The cream cheese mixture will add a luxurious and creamy element to the turnovers.
Now, it's time to assemble the turnovers. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each pastry piece, followed by a dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a turnover, and seal the edges by pressing them together firmly. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Transfer the turnovers to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the turnovers with a little egg wash to give them a golden - brown color when baked. Bake the turnovers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent over - browning.
Once the turnovers are baked and cooled slightly, it's time to add the finishing touch. Spread a little powdered sugar icing on top of the turnovers. To make the icing, simply mix powdered sugar with a little milk or water until you reach the desired consistency. The icing not only makes the turnovers even sweeter but also adds a beautiful, glossy finish.
These apple and cream cheese puff pastry turnovers are perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch. You can serve them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a relaxing and enjoyable morning. They are also great for entertaining guests, as they look impressive and taste amazing. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these turnovers are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with everyone.
In conclusion, these puff pastry turnovers filled with tender apples and cream cheese offer a unique and delicious way to enjoy apple desserts for breakfast. With their flaky pastry, sweet apple filling, and creamy cream cheese, they are a treat for the taste buds. So, the next time you're looking for a special breakfast idea, give these turnovers a try. You won't be disappointed!
