If you have a sweet tooth and love a pastry that’s both flaky and bursting with juicy fruit, this Cherry Turnovers Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine golden, puff pastry triangles filled with a luscious cherry pie filling, kissed with a hint of almond, and drizzled with a smooth, sweet glaze. It’s a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want to impress without stressing. The balance of tart cherries and delicate sweetness wrapped in buttery layers creates an unforgettable bite that’s sure to bring smiles around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Cherry Turnovers Recipe. From the rich cherry filling to the flaky puff pastry and the sweet glaze that finishes it all off, every component adds its own magic.
- Cherry pie filling: Provides the juicy, sweet-tart center that defines the turnovers.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses note and helps intensify the cherry flavor when cooked.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it stays put without oozing out during baking.
- Almond extract (or vanilla extract): Offers a fragrant hint that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Puff pastry dough (2 sheets): Creates the flaky, buttery casing that’s essential for that perfect texture.
- Large egg: Used to brush the tops for a shiny, golden finish.
- Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the glaze for a sweet, smooth coating.
- Milk: Thins the glaze just enough to drizzle easily over the turnovers.
How to Make Cherry Turnovers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This simple step ensures your turnovers bake evenly and come out looking absolutely gorgeous.
Step 2: Mix the cherry filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated and the cornstarch dissolves completely. This mixture will be your luscious, thick cherry center that won’t leak during baking, so make sure it’s smooth and cohesive.
Step 3: Cut and shape the puff pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out one sheet of the puff pastry. Cut the dough into six 4×4 inch squares and arrange them evenly on a prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the second sheet. These squares will become the pockets holding your cherry treasure, so keep them uniform for even baking.
Step 4: Fill and fold the turnovers
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cherry filling onto the center of each pastry square. Carefully fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Seal the edges firmly by pressing them together with a fork to prevent any filling from escaping. Well-sealed edges are the secret to that perfect, tidy turnover that bursts with cherry goodness inside.
Step 5: Add the egg wash and bake
Beat the large egg in a small bowl and brush it lightly over the tops of each turnover. This little brush of egg wash is what gives your turnovers that striking golden-brown color and inviting shine. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 22 minutes until puffed up and beautifully browned. Let them cool right on the baking sheets—they will firm up a bit and be easier to handle.
Step 6: Prepare and drizzle the glaze
While your turnovers cool, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and almond (or vanilla) extract until smooth and glossy. Drizzle this lovely glaze over each pastry once they are cool enough to handle. The glaze sets quickly, adding just the right amount of sweetness and a pretty finishing touch to your Cherry Turnovers Recipe.
How to Serve Cherry Turnovers Recipe
Garnishes
To make your cherry turnovers look as stunning as they taste, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a few fresh cherries on top. A small sprig of mint can also add a fresh pop of green and enticing aroma that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
These turnovers pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea for breakfast or afternoon tea, and they’re also delightful alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re serving them as dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cherry Turnovers Recipe warm inside a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin, or plate them on a dessert platter with a variety of fresh fruits for a brunch spread. You can even drizzle some melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To preserve the flaky texture, avoid refrigerating if you plan to enjoy them soon after baking.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked turnovers by assembling them and placing them on a lined baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Baked turnovers can also be frozen; just thaw and reheat gently.
Reheating
Reheat chilled or frozen turnovers in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep that irresistible puff pastry texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries work beautifully but you’ll want to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling before assembling your turnovers.
Is puff pastry the only dough I can use?
Puff pastry is ideal for the flaky, buttery texture, but if you prefer, you can try pie crust dough. Just know the texture will be a little different—more crumbly than flaky.
Can I make these turnovers dairy-free?
Yes! Most puff pastry contains butter, but there are dairy-free versions available. Use a dairy-free milk alternative for the glaze and egg wash or skip the egg wash for a vegan-friendly finish.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Make sure to seal the edges of the turnovers very well using a fork, and avoid overfilling each pastry square. The cornstarch also helps thicken the filling to minimize leaks.
Can I prepare these turnovers the night before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the turnovers and keep them covered in the refrigerator overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for the best puff and texture!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Turnovers Recipe is a fantastic way to bring a little bakery magic into your own kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself or delighting guests, these golden pastries filled with sweet, tangy cherries will make any day feel special. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and start baking because each flaky bite is worth every moment spent creating it!
Print
Cherry Turnovers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 turnovers
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these flaky and sweet Cherry Turnovers, featuring a luscious cherry filling encased in buttery puff pastry and topped with a smooth almond or vanilla glaze. Perfect as a dessert or a special breakfast treat, these turnovers offer a beautiful golden crust and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
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 to prevent sticking and set them aside.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cherry pie filling, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract until fully combined and the cornstarch is dissolved. This mixture will thicken as it bakes.
- Cut Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the first sheet of puff pastry. Cut it into six 4×4 inch squares. Place the squares on one of the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 2 inches between each to allow for expansion. Repeat with the second sheet of pastry dough.
- Fill and Seal Turnovers: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cherry filling onto the center of each square. Fold each pastry square diagonally to form a triangle, enclosing the filling. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges securely to prevent oozing during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl. Lightly brush the tops of each turnover with the egg wash to enhance browning and give them a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, until the turnovers are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract or vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze Turnovers: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled turnovers. Allow the glaze to set slightly before serving for the best texture and presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the glaze has set, serve your cherry turnovers warm or at room temperature to fully enjoy their flaky layers and sweet cherry filling.
Notes
- Make sure to seal the turnovers well with a fork to prevent the cherry filling from leaking during baking.
- Thaw puff pastry sheets in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours before preparing.
- The almond extract in the filling and glaze can be substituted with vanilla extract depending on preference.
- For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, add a bit more milk gradually.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat turnovers in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes to refresh the flaky pastry texture.
