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Delightful Bacon Apple Turnovers: A Savoury Sweet Treat

Bacon and apples may seem like an unusual pairing at first glance, but when combined in a delicious pastry, they create a delightful balance of savoury and sweet that is simply irresistible. Bacon apple turnovers are a fantastic treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a hearty breakfast, a comforting afternoon snack, or as a playful addition to a brunch spread.

Ingredients: A Perfect Harmony

To create these delicious turnovers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Puff Pastry: The star of the show, puff pastry creates those beautiful flaky layers that are essential for a good turnover. You can either make your own or, for convenience, purchase ready-made pastry from the supermarket.
• Bacon: Choose high-quality, thick-cut bacon for a meaty bite that complements the sweetness of the apples.
• Apples: Tart apples like Bramley or Granny Smith work well, providing a lovely contrast to the salty bacon.
• Sugar: A sprinkle of sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the filling.
• Egg Wash: An egg wash will give your turnovers a beautiful golden finish.

Preparing the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). While the oven heats up, chop the bacon into small pieces and fry it in a pan until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain it on kitchen paper to remove excess grease.

Next, peel and core your apples, then chop them into small pieces. In the same pan, toss the apples briefly, allowing them to soften slightly. Add the fried bacon back into the pan, along with the sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir the mixture well to combine, then remove it from the heat and let it cool.

Assembling the Turnovers

Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm in thickness. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 10cm by 10cm. Place a spoonful of the bacon-apple mixture in the centre of each square. Be careful not to overfill them, as that can cause the filling to leak out during baking.

To seal your turnovers, fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle. Press the edges together with your fingers, and for extra security, you can crimp the edges with a fork. Once assembled, place the turnovers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Before baking, brush the tops of the turnovers with an egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. You can also sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for added sweetness.

Baking to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the turnovers are puffed and golden brown. The delightful aroma of bacon and baked apples will soon fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.

Once baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. These turnovers are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days—if they last that long!

Serving Suggestions

Bacon apple turnovers can be served on their own or paired with a dollop of crème fraîche or clotted cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also make a fantastic addition to a picnic basket or a party platter, offering a unique twist that is sure to impress guests.

Conclusion

Bacon apple turnovers are a wonderfully inventive way to enjoy the classic combination of sweet and salty. They are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and will soon become a favourite in your household. So the next time you’re looking for a new culinary adventure, give these delightful pastries a try, and prepare to enjoy a bite of bliss!