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
Scale
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.
