If you have a soft spot for flaky pastries bursting with sweet, fruity goodness, this Cherry Turnovers Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine tender puff pastry pockets filled with luscious cherry pie filling, kissed with a hint of almond extract, then baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a smooth, sweet glaze. It’s a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for sharing at brunch, dessert tables, or whenever you want a little homemade joy. Trust me, once you try this Cherry Turnovers Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but well-chosen ingredients, each playing a key role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the tart cherries that give the turnovers their vibrant pop to the flaky puff pastry creating those airy layers—every element is essential.
- 2 cups cherry pie filling: This is your fruity center, sweet and a bit tart for that perfect filling.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth to the cherry mixture.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it stays inside the turnovers wonderfully.
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract: Brings a delicate nutty essence that complements the cherries beautifully.
- 1 box puff pastry dough (2 sheets), thawed: The star of the show, ensuring flaky, buttery layers.
- 1 large egg: Used for an egg wash to create an irresistible golden crust.
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar: For the sweet, smooth glaze that finishes each turnover perfectly.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk: Helps thin the glaze to the right consistency for drizzling.
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or ½ teaspoon vanilla extract): Additional flavor to make the glaze sing.
How to Make Cherry Turnovers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Filling
Start by mixing the cherry pie filling with brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract in a large bowl. Stir everything together until the cornstarch and sugar are completely dissolved, creating a luscious, thick fruit mixture that will stay perfectly inside your turnovers.
Step 2: Cut the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the first puff pastry sheet just a bit. Cut it into six 4×4 inch squares. Arrange these on a parchment-lined baking sheet with plenty of space between, then repeat with the second sheet so you have twelve squares total, ready for filling.
Step 3: Fill and Shape Turnovers
Place about two tablespoons of your cherry filling in the center of each square. Fold the pastry diagonally to form a triangle, then firmly press the edges together with a fork, sealing in the filling completely to prevent leaks during baking.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Beat the egg and gently brush the tops of each turnover to ensure they develop a rich golden color as they bake. Pop the trays in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the pastries puff up beautifully and turn golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Glaze and Drizzle
While the turnovers cool on the baking sheet, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond or vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze generously over each turnover, adding that final touch of sweetness and gloss.
How to Serve Cherry Turnovers Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, sprinkle a tiny dusting of powdered sugar over the glazed turnovers, or add a few fresh cherries or mint sprigs on the side to brighten up the plate. The contrast in textures and colors makes these little pastries pop visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cherry Turnovers Recipe alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement their warm, fruity filling. A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea also pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness with a comforting warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these turnovers into a charming dessert platter by arranging them on a rustic wooden board with bowls of fresh cherries and almonds. You can also cut smaller bite-sized portions for parties or pack them individually in pretty boxes for lovely homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Cherry Turnovers Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the pastry crisp and the filling fresh, ready for another delightful snack or dessert moment.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these turnovers later, wrap each individually in plastic wrap and freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to one month. When you’re ready, let them thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
To revive that flaky texture and warm filling, reheat turnovers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained before mixing with the other ingredients, so your turnovers don’t get soggy.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t your thing or you don’t have it on hand, vanilla extract works just as beautifully and provides a warm, complementary flavor.
Can I make the turnovers vegan?
Definitely! Use a plant-based puff pastry and swap out the egg wash for a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup or melted coconut oil to achieve a golden crust.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Sealing the edges firmly with a fork and not overfilling the pastry squares are key. Also, be sure to use cornstarch to thicken the filling, helping it hold together while baking.
Can these turnovers be made in advance for a party?
Yes! You can assemble them a day ahead and keep them refrigerated, then brush with egg wash and bake right before serving for fresh, warm turnovers.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Turnovers Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little homemade magic into your kitchen. The balance of flaky pastry, juicy cherries, and sweet glaze makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, these turnovers promise smiles all around. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly impressive homemade can be!
Print
Cherry Turnovers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 12 turnovers
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Cherry Turnovers featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a sweet cherry pie filling, enhanced by a hint of almond extract and finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect as a dessert or an indulgent snack, these turnovers are golden baked to perfection and drizzled with a light, sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cherry pie filling
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
Pastry
- 1 box puff pastry dough (2 pastry sheets), thawed in the refrigerator
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Glaze
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or ½ teaspoon vanilla extract)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Cherry Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract. Stir well until the cornstarch completely dissolves and the mixture is evenly combined. Set aside.
- Cut Puff Pastry: On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out one thawed puff pastry sheet slightly. Cut it into six 4×4-inch squares and arrange them on one prepared baking sheet with at least 2 inches between each piece. Repeat this process with the second puff pastry sheet on the other baking sheet.
- Fill and Shape Turnovers: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cherry filling mixture onto the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry diagonally over the filling to form a triangle shape. Seal the edges by pressing them together and crimping with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the large egg in a small bowl. Lightly brush the tops of each turnover with the beaten egg to give the pastries a beautiful golden-brown finish after baking.
- Bake Turnovers: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Bake until the turnovers are golden brown, puffed, and fully cooked. Remove carefully from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract (or vanilla extract) until the glaze is smooth and combined.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the prepared glaze over each cooled turnover. Allow the glaze to set briefly before serving. Enjoy your delicious cherry turnovers!
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed to allow easy rolling and cutting.
- Seal the turnover edges well to avoid any filling leakage during baking.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract in both the filling and the glaze for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the milk quantity in the glaze to reach desired consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; best enjoyed within 2 days.
