If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust, then you’re in for a treat with this Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe. These turnovers combine the bright burst of fresh cherries with a luscious filling that is both sweet and slightly tart, all encased in golden, crisp puff pastry. They are incredibly easy to make, ideal for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a cozy afternoon. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts to satisfy that fruit-filled craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is key to bringing out the best taste, texture, and color in your cherry turnovers. The simplicity of these ingredients makes the magic happen—each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible filling and flaky crust.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: The foundation for your turnovers, puff pastry provides that light, flaky texture everyone loves.
- 1 ½ cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved: Fresh cherries offer a vibrant color and natural tartness that shine in the filling.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the cherries’ tartness perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the filling the perfect consistency.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances the tartness and brightens the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm undertone that rounds out the filling.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Creates a beautiful golden-brown finish and helps seal the turnovers.
- Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling or icing drizzle: Adds a delightful crunch or extra sweetness if desired.
How to Make Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your turnovers bake evenly and don’t stick, setting you up for success right from the start.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, gently cook together the fresh cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until it thickens nicely. Then, allow the filling to cool slightly. This step is where the sweet-tart flavor develops, creating that signature filling that makes this recipe shine.
Step 3: Prepare the Pastry
While your filling cools, roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 4 equal squares. Keeping the pastry cold while working with it is a good tip to ensure it rises beautifully in the oven and becomes delightfully flaky.
Step 4: Fill and Fold
Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each pastry square. Then fold the pastry diagonally to create a triangle shape. Use the prongs of a fork to firmly press and seal the edges, making sure none of the delicious filling escapes during baking.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of your turnovers with the beaten egg to get a gorgeous golden finish. If you like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for added texture and sparkle. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until your turnovers have puffed up and turned a lovely golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the turnovers to cool for a bit to let the filling set inside. For a final flourish, drizzle with icing or enjoy them as they are. These treats are best served warm, letting that fruity filling melt in your mouth with every bite.
How to Serve Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your cherry turnovers to a new level of deliciousness. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of sweet vanilla icing adds a pretty touch and a hint of extra sweetness without overpowering the natural cherry flavor.
Side Dishes
These turnovers pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serving alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea completes the experience, making your dessert moment even more comforting and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Arrange your turnovers on a wooden board with fresh mint leaves and scattered cherries for a rustic look. Alternatively, serve them in individual dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any turnovers left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They taste best fresh, but this method will keep them from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked turnovers by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a freshly baked treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, place the turnovers on a baking sheet and pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps the pastry crisp and reheats the filling beautifully without making the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using, as excess moisture can make the filling too runny. Adjust the cornstarch slightly if needed to help thicken the filling.
What can I substitute for puff pastry?
If puff pastry is not available, you can use refrigerated pie crust for a similar, though slightly less flaky, texture. Just handle it gently to avoid toughening the crust.
Can these turnovers be made vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk and maple syrup mixture to give a nice golden sheen. Be sure to pick a vegan puff pastry to make this a fully vegan-friendly dessert.
How long do Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe keep fresh?
They are best enjoyed the day they are made for maximum crispiness, but you can keep them fresh for up to 2 days stored properly at room temperature.
Is it okay to double the recipe?
Definitely! Just be sure to work with one batch of puff pastry at a time if space is limited, and adjust your baking times slightly if needed to accommodate multiple turnovers on your baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little homemade magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, those sweet-tart cherries wrapped in flaky pastry will make any day feel special. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create such a delightful and memorable dessert!
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Cherry Turnovers with Sweet-Tart Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 turnovers
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cherry Turnovers feature a flaky puff pastry filled with a sweet-tart cherry filling, perfect for a delightful dessert or snack. The filling is made by simmering fresh cherries with sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla to create a luscious, thickened fruit mixture. The turnovers are baked until golden and flaky, optionally topped with coarse sugar or a sweet icing drizzle.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cherry Filling
- 1 ½ cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Finishing
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling or icing drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the Cherry Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 5–6 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to avoid soggy pastry when filled.
- Prepare the Pastry: Lay out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently if needed and cut into 4 equal squares to form the bases for the turnovers.
- Fill and Fold: Spoon a portion of the cherry filling into the center of each puff pastry square. Fold each square diagonally to create a triangle shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the turnovers and keep the filling contained during baking.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of each turnover to give them a glossy, golden finish while baking. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar over the tops for added texture and sweetness. Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18–22 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the turnovers cool slightly on a wire rack to set the filling and avoid burns. Optionally, drizzle with icing before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh cherries with frozen ones if out of season; just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
- For a crispier crust, chill the turnovers briefly before baking.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the filling.
- These turnovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven to maintain crispiness.
