Cherry Turnovers

There’s so much to adore about Cherry Turnovers. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

1. Flaky and Buttery : The puff pastry creates a golden, crispy shell that’s impossible to resist.
2. Juicy and Sweet-Tart : The cherry filling is perfectly balanced—sweet enough to satisfy, but with a hint of tartness for depth.
3. Easy to Make : With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these turnovers in no time.
4. Customizable : Add spices, swap fillings, or experiment with toppings to suit your taste.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare them ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to these turnovers lies in their simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry filling, see below)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten the flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Pastry:

• 1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed according to package instructions)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Coarse sugar (for sprinkling before baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up these flaky, juicy turnovers? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. If using canned cherry pie filling, stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract (if desired) to enhance the flavor.
2. For homemade filling: Combine 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Let cool before using.

Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers

1. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (or use a round cutter for circular turnovers).
2. Place 1–2 tablespoons of cherry filling in the center of each square or circle, leaving a border around the edges.
3. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle (or half-circle) and press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Step 4: Bake the Turnovers

1. Place the assembled turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
2. Brush the tops lightly with water or beaten egg (for a golden shine) and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
3. Use a sharp knife to cut a small slit in the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes , or until the turnovers are golden brown and puffed.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled turnovers for an extra touch of sweetness.
2. Alternatively, dust the turnovers with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the flaky, juicy goodness!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Cherry Turnovers lies in their balance of textures and flavors. The buttery, flaky puff pastry provides a satisfying crunch, while the juicy cherry filling adds a burst of sweetness and tartness that keeps every bite exciting. Together, these elements create a dessert that’s as comforting as it is indulgent—a true crowd-pleaser.

Variations to Try

While the classic version is divine, here are some creative ways to switch things up:

1. Add Spices : Stir cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract into the cherry filling for added warmth.
2. Swap the Fruit : Use apple, blueberry, or mixed berry filling for a different flavor profile.
3. Make It Mini : Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized turnovers perfect for parties.
4. Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary restrictions.
5. Vegan Version : Use plant-based puff pastry and a dairy-free glaze for a vegan-friendly option.