How many calories are in an apple turnover with fresh cream?

December 1, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data from Coles Bakery, a single fresh cream apple turnover contains 527 calories. However, the exact calorie count for an apple turnover with fresh cream can fluctuate greatly depending on whether it's store-bought or homemade, and the specific recipe used.

Quick Summary

The calorie total for an apple turnover with fresh cream varies widely, from around 250 to over 500 per pastry, depending on preparation and serving size.

Key Points

Variable Calories: An apple turnover with fresh cream contains a variable number of calories, ranging from approximately 250 to over 500 kcal per pastry.
Significant Cream Contribution: Fresh cream is a major calorie contributor due to its high fat content, substantially increasing the energy density of the dessert.
Recipe Specifics Matter: Both homemade and store-bought versions have different calorie profiles, with homemade allowing for greater control over ingredients and nutrition.
High in Fat and Sugar: This dessert is a calorie-dense treat primarily composed of saturated fat from the pastry and cream, and high levels of sugar.
Lighter Options Exist: Health-conscious individuals can opt for reduced-sugar recipes, use lighter cream alternatives, or prepare the turnovers in an air fryer to lower the calorie count.
Moderation is Key: Due to its high energy, fat, and sugar content, a fresh cream apple turnover is best enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Check Store-Bought Labels: When buying pre-made turnovers, compare different brands and review the packaging for nutritional facts, as values can differ widely.

Understanding the Calorie Content of an Apple Turnover with Fresh Cream

Determining the precise calorie content of an apple turnover with fresh cream is more complex than it might seem, as the number can vary significantly. Factors such as the type of pastry used, the amount of butter and sugar in the recipe, and the quantity of fresh cream piped inside all play a critical role. A store-bought turnover, for instance, might contain a different calorie count than a homemade version, even if they appear similar.

The Calorie Components of a Classic Recipe

The primary calorie contributors in a classic apple turnover with fresh cream are the pastry, the apple filling, and the cream itself. The puff pastry alone is a rich source of energy, primarily from the layers of butter folded into the dough. The apple filling, while containing some fiber from the fruit, is typically cooked with generous amounts of sugar and butter, increasing its caloric density. Lastly, the fresh cream, known for its high fat content, adds a substantial number of calories and fat per serving. Understanding these individual components is key to grasping the total nutritional impact.

Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

There is a notable difference between the calorie content of homemade and store-bought fresh cream apple turnovers. Homemade turnovers offer the flexibility to control ingredients and portion sizes, potentially leading to a healthier version. In contrast, store-bought options from various bakeries and supermarkets are formulated for taste and shelf-life, which often means higher levels of sugar and fat. Brands can also vary widely, so it's always best to check the nutritional information provided on the packaging.


Feature	Homemade Apple Turnover with Cream	Store-Bought Apple Turnover with Cream
Calorie Range	~335 to 417 kcal (estimate)	~254 to 536 kcal (Waitrose vs. Mabel's Cakes)
Ingredient Control	High. You can substitute ingredients to reduce calories.	Low. Pre-determined recipe, can have added preservatives and sugar.
Fat Content	Can be controlled by using less butter or a lighter cream.	Often high in saturated fats from pastry and cream ingredients.
Sugar Content	Customizable. Less sugar can be used in both the filling and cream.	Can be very high due to added sugars in filling and icing.
Size Variation	You can determine the size of each pastry.	Standardized sizes that may not align with your dietary goals.

Nutritional Impact Beyond Calories

Beyond the total calorie count, it's important to consider the broader nutritional profile of an apple turnover with fresh cream. The combination of puff pastry, sugar-sweetened apples, and fresh cream results in a treat that is high in refined carbohydrates and saturated fat. While the apple filling offers some dietary fiber and nutrients like Vitamin C, these benefits are overshadowed by the high-calorie components. Regularly consuming such a high-sugar, high-fat dessert can have a significant impact on one's overall diet and health, contributing to issues like high cholesterol and weight gain if not enjoyed in moderation.

Strategies for a Lighter Indulgence

For those who love the delicious combination of apple and cream but are conscious of their calorie intake, several modifications can be made. These substitutions can help reduce the overall calorie count without completely sacrificing flavor.

Here are some strategies for making a healthier turnover:

Swap the cream: Instead of heavy fresh cream, use a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt or a plant-based whipped topping. This can dramatically cut down on fat and calories.
Reduce sugar: Use a reduced sugar recipe for the apple filling, or opt for a natural sweetener like stevia. Many recipes already exist for low-sugar apple turnovers.
Choose a lighter pastry: While a true puff pastry is rich, you can use a lighter, low-fat pastry dough or even a phyllo dough, which is considerably lower in fat and calories. An air fryer can also provide a crisp texture with less oil.
Embrace natural sweetness: Let the natural sweetness of the apples shine by adding cinnamon and nutmeg instead of relying heavily on added sugars. Using sweeter apple varieties like Gala can help.
Control portions: Simply making smaller turnovers can reduce the number of calories per serving, allowing you to enjoy the treat in moderation.

Conclusion: A Calorie-Dense Treat to Enjoy in Moderation

In conclusion, while a standard fresh cream apple turnover is a high-calorie and high-fat indulgence, the exact number is not fixed. It depends heavily on the recipe, preparation method, and ingredients. A typical store-bought version can easily exceed 500 calories, while a homemade or lighter option might be closer to 300 calories. The best way to enjoy this delicious treat is in moderation, being mindful of portion sizes and exploring healthier modifications when possible. Understanding the nutritional components is the first step towards making informed choices without giving up the occasional sweet reward.

For more insight into the health benefits of apples, consult this guide: BBC Good Food on Apple Benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average calorie count for a store-bought version varies widely, but it can range from around 250 kcal (Waitrose) to over 500 kcal (Coles Bakery), depending on the brand and size.

Fresh cream significantly increases the calorie count due to its high fat content. A plain apple turnover would have considerably fewer calories than one filled with or topped with fresh cream.

Yes, you can. Lighter versions can be made by using a reduced-sugar recipe, substituting the heavy cream with a low-fat or plant-based alternative, and controlling portion sizes.

While the apple filling provides some dietary fiber and vitamins, the overall nutritional benefits are limited. The high levels of fat and sugar outweigh the modest nutritional content from the fruit.

Homemade turnovers allow for greater control over ingredients, potentially leading to less added sugar and fat. Store-bought products often contain more additives and higher levels of fat and sugar for commercial purposes.

No, it is not balanced. The majority of calories typically come from carbohydrates and fat, with a much lower proportion from protein.

To reduce calories, you can make several substitutions: use lighter puff pastry dough, cook the apples with less added sugar, and use a low-fat or whipped cream alternative instead of full-fat fresh cream.

Calorie counts vary due to differences in pastry size, dough ingredients (e.g., amount of butter), the quantity of filling, and the type and amount of cream or icing used.