Appelflappen are a beloved Dutch treat that bring the cozy flavors of spiced apples wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave a warm, comforting snack, these apple turnovers are simple to make yet impressively delicious.
We love how the combination of tender apple filling with cinnamon and a hint of lemon zest creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The golden, crispy exterior adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Appelflappen, using the right ingredients is essential. Below, we break down what you need for the dough, the spiced apple filling, and the frying and garnishing steps to achieve that authentic Dutch flavor and texture.
For the Dough
We use ingredients that yield a flaky and golden crust, which crisps beautifully when fried.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ⅓ cup ice-cold water
For the Filling
The filling balances sweet and tangy notes with warm spices to complement the flaky pastry.
- 3 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or any tart variety), peeled, cored, and finely diced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken filling)
For Frying and Garnishing
These ingredients help us achieve a crispy finish and add that signature sweet sparkle.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Crisp, golden exterior |
| Powdered sugar | Light dusting before serving |
By preparing these ingredients precisely as outlined, we ensure our Appelflappen comes out with the perfect blend of flavors and textures every time.
Equipment Needed
To make perfect appelflappen at home, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures a smooth process and the best results for our flaky, delicious Dutch treats.
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for the dough and one for the apple filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement guarantees the right balance of flavors and texture.
- Knife and cutting board: For peeling, coring, and finely chopping apples.
- Rolling pin: To roll out the flaky dough evenly to the desired thickness.
- Fork: For sealing the pastry edges securely.
Cooking and Preparation Equipment
- Deep frying pan or pot: Choose one with high, sturdy sides to prevent oil splatters when frying the appelflappen.
- Candy or deep-fry thermometer: Maintaining oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) is vital for crisp, golden results.
- Slotted spoon or spider: This helps to safely lift the appelflappen out of the hot oil while draining excess oil.
- Cooling rack: Place fried appelflappen on this so air circulates and keeps the pastry crispy, preventing sogginess.
- Paper towels: For initial oil draining before transferring to the cooling rack.
Optional Equipment
- Pastry brush: Useful to apply beaten egg wash for a golden sheen on the dough before frying.
- Zester or microplane: If you want to add fresh lemon zest to the filling for an aromatic boost.
- Sifter: To dust the fried appelflappen evenly with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Mixing dough and apple filling |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Knife & cutting board | Preparing apples |
| Rolling pin | Rolling out dough |
| Fork | Sealing pastry edges |
| Deep frying pan/pot | Frying appelflappen |
| Candy/deep-fry thermometer | Monitoring oil temperature |
| Slotted spoon/spider | Removing appelflappen from hot oil |
| Cooling rack | Keeping fried pastry crisp |
| Paper towels | Initial oil drainage |
| Pastry brush (optional) | Egg wash application |
| Zester/microplane (optional) | Adding fresh lemon zest |
| Sifter (optional) | Dusting powdered sugar |
With these tools and equipment, we are fully set to dive into crafting the authentic appelflappen recipe that delights with every bite.
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our Appelflappen, proper preparation is key. Prepping the dough and apple filling carefully ensures the perfect balance of flaky crust and spiced sweetness in every bite.
Preparing the Dough
- Gather Ingredients: Use all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, cold butter, and ice-cold water. Keeping butter and water cold is essential for creating a flaky texture.
- Cut Butter into Flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut cold butter into small cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to mix them into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
- Add Ice-Cold Water: Drizzle in the ice-cold water gradually. Stir gently with a fork until the dough just begins to come together.
- Form the Dough: Lightly knead the dough by hand on a cool surface until it forms a smooth ball. Do not over-knead; you want to preserve the flaky layers.
- Chill Thoroughly: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The chilling step refreshes the gluten and keeps the butter firm for that signature crispness.
Preparing the Apple Filling
- Select Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance against the sweet pastry. Peel, core, and dice the apples into uniform bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Spices and Flavorings: In a bowl combine diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and cornstarch. The lemon elements brighten flavor while cornstarch thickens the filling during frying.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes. This step helps the apples release their juices, blending the spices and creating a succulent filling.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted | Base of dough |
| Sugar (dough) | 2 tbsp | Slight sweetness | |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Flavor enhancer | |
| Cold unsalted butter | 1 cup (8 oz) | Cut into small cubes | Creates flaky crust |
| Ice-cold water | 6–8 tbsp | Binds dough | |
| Tart apples | 3 medium | Peeled, cored, diced | Filling base |
| Sugar (filling) | ⅓ cup | Sweetness | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Warm spice | |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | Finely grated | Bright flavor, aroma |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Tartness, prevents browning | |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | Thickens filling |
Preparing dough and filling with these precise steps guarantees a sensational Appelflappen experience every time.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to create authentic and delicious appelflappen. Each stage ensures our Dutch apple turnovers develop the perfect balance of flaky pastry and spiced apple filling.
Rolling and Cutting the Dough
- Lightly flour your workspace before removing the chilled dough from the refrigerator.
- Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick.
- Trim edges to make the dough even.
- Cut dough into 5-inch (12.5 cm) squares for uniform turnovers.
- Place the dough squares on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper while assembling the filling.
| Step | Details | Measurement/Size |
|---|---|---|
| Dough thickness | Roll out thin | 1/8 inch (3 mm) |
| Dough cut size | Cut into squares | 5-inch (12.5 cm) sides |
Assembling the Appelflappen
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of prepared apple filling onto the center of each dough square.
- Fold the square diagonally into a triangle shape, covering the filling completely.
- Press the edges together gently, then seal firmly by pressing with a fork.
- Poke 2-3 small holes on top of each turnover with the fork to allow steam to escape.
- Place assembled turnovers on a parchment-lined tray, ready for frying.
“Sealing the edges tightly prevents filling from leaking and keeps the appelflappen crispy and intact during frying.”
Frying the Appelflappen
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Carefully place 2-3 appelflappen into the hot oil without overcrowding.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider to gently remove them from the oil.
| Frying Temperature | Time per Batch | Doneness Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 3-4 minutes | Golden brown & crispy |
Draining and Cooling
- Transfer fried appelflappen onto a tray lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Let them cool for 5-10 minutes on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
- Dust the turnovers lightly with powdered sugar before serving for a classic finish.
“Proper draining and cooling ensure our appelflappen remain light and crunchy instead of oily or soggy.”
By carefully following these directions, we guarantee each appelflappen bursts with sweet spiced apples inside a perfectly crisp shell.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Appelflappen, we recommend serving them warm. The combination of the crispy, golden exterior and the tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Here are some fabulous ways to enhance your Appelflappen experience:
- Pair with Hot Beverages:
Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, rich hot chocolate, or aromatic tea. The warmth of the drink beautifully complements the sweet tang of the apple filling.
- Add a Dollop of Cream or Ice Cream:
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds creamy richness that contrasts the flaky pastry. This is especially comforting on cooler days.
- Drizzle with Caramel or Honey:
Lightly drizzling warm caramel sauce or honey over the Appelflappen introduces a deeper sweetness and glossy finish. This makes the treat feel extra indulgent.
- Dust Generously with Powdered Sugar:
After frying and cooling, sprinkle an additional layer of powdered sugar for a classic look and a touch of extra sweetness.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit:
Fresh slices of apple or pear, or a handful of berries, enhance the natural fruitiness of the filling while adding a refreshing balance.
| Serving Component | Recommendation | Flavor Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Beverage | Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate | Complements sweet, warm flavors |
| Cream or Ice Cream | Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream | Adds creamy richness |
| Drizzle | Caramel sauce, honey | Deepens sweetness |
| Powdered Sugar | Dust generously before serving | Adds sweetness and visual appeal |
| Fresh Fruit | Apple slices, pears, berries | Balances sweetness with freshness |
“Serving our Appelflappen warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms a comforting snack into a memorable dessert.”
Keeping these serving suggestions in mind will elevate your homemade appelflappen into an impressive treat ideal for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy appelflappen anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we ensure our appelflappen stay fresh, crispy, and flavorful.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the Dough and Filling in Advance
We recommend making the dough and apple filling up to 2 days ahead. Store the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to prevent drying. Keep the apple filling in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Pre-Cut and Assemble Before Frying
To save time on the day of frying, cut the dough into squares and assemble the filled triangles without frying. Place the prepared appelflappen on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This method allows the dough to slightly firm up, which helps maintain the shape during frying.
Storage After Frying
- Cooling Before Storage
Always let fried appelflappen cool completely on a cooling rack before storing. Trapping steam causes sogginess and softens the crisp crust.
- Short-Term Storage (Up to 2 Days)
Store the appelflappen in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if your kitchen is warm. Adding a sheet of parchment paper between layers prevents sticking.
- Long-Term Storage (Freezing)
Freeze leftover appelflappen for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Label with the date for reference.
Reheating Tips to Restore Crispness
| Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 350°F (175°C) | 8-10 minutes | Place on wire rack for even heat |
| Toaster Oven | Medium setting | 5-7 minutes | Monitor closely to avoid burning |
| Air Fryer | 350°F (175°C) | 5 minutes | Shake basket halfway to crisp all sides |
“Reheating in the oven or air fryer restores that perfect crispy texture much better than microwaving, which makes the pastry soggy.”
Key Reminders for Best Results
- Never store warm appelflappen in closed containers to avoid sogginess.
- Use parchment paper or cooling racks to prevent moisture buildup.
- For the best flavor, serve reheated appelflappen warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we keep our appelflappen deliciously crisp and full of their signature sweet, spiced apple goodness.
Conclusion
Making appelflappen at home brings a little taste of Dutch tradition right to our kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, we can enjoy a warm, crispy treat bursting with flavorful spiced apples.
Whether we’re sharing them with family or savoring one alongside our favorite hot drink, appelflappen offer a comforting and delicious experience. Plus, the flexibility to prepare ahead and store them means we can enjoy this cozy snack anytime.
Let’s embrace the joy of homemade appelflappen and make every bite a moment to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are appelflappen?
Appelflappen are Dutch turnovers made with spiced apple filling wrapped in flaky pastry, fried until crispy. They are a warm, sweet treat often enjoyed in autumn.
What ingredients do I need to make appelflappen?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, butter, ice-cold water for the dough; tart apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cornstarch for the filling; vegetable oil for frying; and powdered sugar for dusting.
What equipment is essential for making appelflappen?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, knife, cutting board, rolling pin, and fork. For cooking, use a deep frying pan or pot, thermometer, slotted spoon, cooling rack, and paper towels.
How do I prepare the dough for appelflappen?
Mix flour, sugar, salt, and cold butter, then add ice water until dough forms. Roll out to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 5-inch squares ready for filling.
How is the apple filling made?
Combine peeled, chopped tart apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cornstarch. This mixture creates a sweet, tangy filling with balanced spice.
What is the best oil temperature and frying time for appelflappen?
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry appelflappen for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
How should appelflappen be served?
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar. Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Optional toppings include vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or fresh fruit.
Can I make appelflappen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare dough and filling up to two days in advance, assemble before frying, and store fried appelflappen in airtight containers or freeze for longer storage.
How do I store and reheat appelflappen?
Store cooled appelflappen in an airtight container short-term or freeze for longer. Reheat in an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to restore crispiness.
What tips help keep appelflappen crispy?
Cool completely before storing, avoid sealing warm appelflappen in containers, and always serve warm with powdered sugar for the best texture and flavor.