Turkish Apple Turnovers – Elmali Kurabiye

The first time I tasted Elmali Kurabiye was at a tiny, family-run bakery tucked away on a side street in Istanbul. The aroma of warm apples, cinnamon, and freshly baked dough spilled out onto the cobblestones, drawing me in like a siren’s call. I remember biting into the flaky, buttery pastry, the sweet-tart apple filling melting in my mouth, and feeling an instant connection to this humble yet exquisite treat. It was more than just a pastry; it was a taste of Turkish hospitality and warmth, a feeling I’ve tried to recreate ever since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 turnovers
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups flour
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 5 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Water (as needed)

For the Filling:

• 3 apples
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ cup walnuts, chopped

Optional Garnish:

• Hazelnuts, chopped fine

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the apple filling. Peel, seed, and finely chop the apples.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped apples, sugar, and water.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the liquid has reduced. If needed, add a little more water to prevent scorching.
4. Once the apples are soft, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Set the apple filling aside to cool completely.
5. Now, prepare the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, yogurt, baking powder, vanilla, and powdered sugar.
6. Mix the ingredients together using your hands or a pastry blender. The mixture will initially be crumbly.
7. Gradually add a small amount of water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together into a smooth, pliable ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough. I generally knead for about 3-5 minutes.
8. Divide the dough into six equal portions.
9. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough into an oval shape, about ¼ inch thick.
10. Place a generous spoonful of the cooled apple filling on one half of the oval.
11. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a turnover shape.
12. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the filling inside. You can use a fork to create a decorative crimped edge.
13. Place the filled turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional).
14. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the turnovers are golden brown.
15. Remove the Elmali Kurabiye from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
16. If desired, sprinkle the cooled turnovers with finely chopped hazelnuts for garnish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Chill the dough: For extra flaky pastry, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overfill the turnovers, as this can cause the filling to leak out during baking.
• Egg Wash (Optional): Brush the tops of the turnovers with a beaten egg before baking for a shinier, golden-brown crust.
• Make Ahead: The apple filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Ensure your baking sheet is not too close to the heating element in your oven. A middle rack position will promote even baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Elmali Kurabiye is best served warm or at room temperature. They make a delightful accompaniment to a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.

To store leftover turnovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for a few minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	708.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	313 g	44%
Total Fat	34.9 g	53%
Saturated Fat	19.9 g	99%
Cholesterol	81.7 mg	27%
Sodium	335.1 mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	91.5 g	30%
Dietary Fiber	5.3 g	21%
Sugars	27.1 g	N/A
Protein	9.5 g	19%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may need to add a bit more water to achieve the desired dough consistency.
• Different Fruits: Experiment with other fruit fillings such as pears, peaches, or berries.
• Spice Variations: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom to the apple filling for a different flavor profile.
• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and hazelnuts for a nut-free version. You can substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
A: While you can use store-bought pie crust, the homemade dough provides a more authentic and delicious result.

Q: How do I prevent the turnovers from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Q: My filling is too runny. What can I do?
A: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to the filling to help thicken it.

Q: Can I freeze the unbaked turnovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked turnovers. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Why is my dough cracking when I roll it out?
A: The dough may be too dry. Add a teaspoon of water at a time until the dough becomes more pliable.

Final Thoughts

Elmali Kurabiye is more than just a simple apple turnover; it’s a taste of Turkish culture and a comforting treat that evokes feelings of warmth and happiness. I urge you to try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of flaky pastry and sweet, spiced apple filling. Share your creations with family and friends, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make it your own. Pair it with a strong Turkish coffee for the complete experience. Afiyet Olsun! (Enjoy your meal!)