Homemade Cherry Turnovers Recipe – Easy, Flaky, and Delicious Fruit-Filled Pastries
Cherry turnovers are a delightful pastry that combines flaky puff pastry with sweet, tart cherry filling. Whether served warm from the oven or cooled and drizzled with a silky glaze, these turnovers are a bakery-style treat that you can easily make at home with just a handful of ingredients. In this in-depth guide, we will explore not just the recipe itself, but also the techniques, history, and tips that make cherry turnovers an irresistible dessert or snack. If you love fruit-filled pastries and want something both impressive and approachable, this recipe is a must-try.
What Are Cherry Turnovers?
Cherry turnovers are triangular pastries made by folding dough over a cherry filling and baking until golden and crisp. While traditional turnovers are often made with a buttery pie crust or puff pastry, modern versions like this one use store-bought puff pastry for convenience and consistency. Puff pastry delivers that signature crisp and airy texture that perfectly contrasts with the juicy, rich cherry filling inside. A glaze made with powdered sugar and vanilla completes the treat, adding just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the fruit.
These turnovers are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They can be served warm or cold, and they’re portable enough for lunchboxes, picnics, or casual gatherings. You can even make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for future cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade cherry turnover recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few ingredients, yet the results are impressive and full of flavor. Here’s why this recipe works so well:
- It uses store-bought puff pastry, which saves time and guarantees consistent results without the need for complex dough preparation.
- You can use either fresh, frozen, or canned cherry pie filling, making it flexible for all seasons.
- The simple vanilla glaze adds a professional bakery-style touch.
- Each turnover is individually portioned, making serving and sharing easy.
- The recipe can be adapted for other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients prepared and ready. Here is a breakdown of what you will need to make eight delicious cherry turnovers.
For the turnovers:
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 cup fresh, frozen, or canned cherry pie filling
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the puff pastry starts baking at the right temperature from the moment it goes in, helping it puff properly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Remove the puff pastry sheets from the freezer and let them thaw according to the package instructions. Most brands recommend letting the sheets sit at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes. Once thawed, lightly flour a clean surface and gently roll out the pastry sheets to smooth out any creases.
Step 3: Cut the Pastry into Squares
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide each puff pastry sheet into four equal squares. You should end up with a total of eight squares. These squares will become your turnover bases.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Filling
Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill, as too much filling can cause the turnovers to leak during baking.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold each pastry square over to form a triangle. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside. To ensure a secure seal and decorative edge, use the tines of a fork to crimp all sides of the turnovers.
Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat one egg with one tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash. This will help the pastry develop a golden, glossy finish during baking. Brush the tops of the turnovers lightly with the egg wash using a pastry brush.
Step 7: Bake the Turnovers
Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the turnovers are golden brown and puffed. Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on them toward the end of baking.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the turnovers are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, combine one cup of powdered sugar with one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, a little at a time, stirring until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar or milk as needed.
Step 9: Glaze the Turnovers
Once the turnovers are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Drizzle the prepared glaze over the tops of the turnovers using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Baking Tips and Troubleshooting
- Prevent Leaks: Don’t overfill the turnovers, and always seal them well with a fork. You can also brush the edges with a bit of water before crimping for a stronger seal.
- Even Browning: Rotate the baking tray halfway through the baking time to ensure even color and puff.
- Cooling: Allow turnovers to cool slightly before glazing, or the glaze may melt too quickly and run off.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat in the oven to refresh the crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked turnovers on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them directly into a preheated oven and add 2 to 3 minutes to the bake time. You can also freeze baked turnovers, though the texture may be slightly softer once thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Other Fruit Fillings: Try blueberry, raspberry, apple, or peach pie fillings for a different flavor profile.
- Homemade Cherry Filling: If you prefer a homemade filling, cook pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice on the stove until thickened. Cool before using.
- Glaze Alternatives: Add almond extract or lemon zest to the glaze for a different twist.
- Savory Option: For a savory variation, skip the sugar and use a savory filling like cheese and spinach or ham and mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the turnovers in advance?
Yes. You can assemble the turnovers and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially convenient if you are planning for a brunch or gathering.
Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Absolutely. If you have the time and experience, homemade puff pastry adds a wonderfully rich flavor and texture. However, store-bought versions work perfectly for everyday baking and save a significant amount of time.
Why are my turnovers soggy?
This can happen if the filling is too wet or if the turnovers are stored improperly. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the filling before adding it and always store them uncovered or lightly covered at room temperature for short-term use.
Do I need to score or vent the pastries before baking?
You can cut a small slit in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape. This reduces the risk of bursting during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these turnovers as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair well with coffee or tea and can be enjoyed as a special weekend breakfast. Add them to a brunch table alongside other pastries, fruit, and eggs for a well-rounded meal.
The History of Turnovers
Turnovers date back centuries and have roots in various culinary traditions around the world. The concept of encasing fillings in dough and baking them is seen in numerous cultures. From the Cornish pasty in England to the empanada in Spain and Latin America, these portable, hand-held pastries were originally created for workers and travelers who needed easy, filling meals. In modern baking, sweet turnovers have become a popular dessert in bakeries and home kitchens alike. Their convenience, versatility, and appeal make them a timeless favorite.
Conclusion
Homemade cherry turnovers are a delightful blend of convenience and homemade charm. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a pastry that rivals anything found in a bakery. Puff pastry provides the perfect flaky texture, while the cherry filling brings a balance of sweetness and tartness. Topped with a smooth glaze, these turnovers become an elegant yet comforting treat for any occasion.
Whether you are new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cherry turnover recipe is one that you will want to make again and again. Its adaptability allows for creativity, and its simplicity guarantees consistent results. Keep a box of puff pastry in your freezer, and you’ll always be ready to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes.