Unforgettable Cherry Turnovers: A Must-Try Sweet Treat

Looking for the perfect fruit-filled pastry that works as a dessert, a sweet breakfast appetizer, or a party treat? These Cherry Turnovers check all the boxes. Golden, flaky, and filled with a rich cherry filling that bursts with fruity goodness in every bite, this pastry is the definition of comfort. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, brunching with friends, or planning fun desserts for parties, this recipe delivers the flavor and convenience you need.

Even better, these cherry turnovers are quick to make using store-bought puff pastry, which makes them approachable for all levels of home bakers. You can easily adapt them to be part of your air fryer Christmas treats, a fruit Thanksgiving dessert, or a go-to for your collection of easy freezable desserts. With a handful of simple ingredients and a few kitchen tools, you’ll have a tray of golden turnovers ready in no time.

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What Are Cherry Turnovers? A Classic Pastry Explained

A cherry turnover is a classic pastry made by folding puff pastry dough around a cherry filling, then baking it until golden and crisp. The name “turnover” comes from the process of turning the pastry over the filling and sealing it shut. Traditionally served as a sweet breakfast appetizer, cherry turnovers are just as welcome at dessert tables and holiday feasts.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While cherry is the star today, turnovers can be filled with apples, berries, or even cream cheese. However, there’s something timeless about the sweet-tart balance of cherries nestled in flaky pastry. It’s no wonder this dessert ranks among the best desserts of all time for so many families.

Perfect Occasions for Cherry Turnovers (From Breakfast to Parties)

Cherry turnovers are delightfully adaptable and can be served for many occasions. Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or need a last-minute dessert idea, these pastries shine every time. Here’s where they fit in best:

• Fruit Thanksgiving Dessert: A lighter, fruity option on the dessert table
• Christmas Finger Desserts for Parties: Easy to serve and festive with a glaze or sugar dusting
• Sweet Breakfast Appetizers: Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy brunch
• Fun Desserts for Parties: Perfectly portioned for guests to grab and go
• Easy Freezable Desserts: Prep ahead, freeze, and bake when needed

You can even adapt the recipe to fit dietary preferences or time constraints, making this a smart choice for hosts and home cooks alike.

Ingredients for Cherry Turnovers (With Precise Quantities)

Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need to create eight perfectly golden cherry turnovers.

For the turnovers:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 250g), thawed if frozen
• 1 cup canned sour cherries (drained) or cherry pie filling
• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust if cherries are already sweetened)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

If you’re looking for recipes using pastry dough, this one is an excellent starting point. You can also use homemade pastry if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade Cherry Turnovers

Making cherry turnovers is surprisingly easy, and the results are truly bakery-quality. Follow these steps for a flawless outcome:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cherry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the drained cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 4 squares (or more for smaller portions).
4. Add the filling. Spoon a tablespoon or two of cherry mixture into the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill.
5. Seal the edges. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges with a fork to seal them well.
6. Egg wash. Whisk the egg yolk and milk together and brush over the tops for a golden finish.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the turnovers are puffed and deep golden brown.
8. Cool and glaze (optional). Let the turnovers cool slightly. Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a simple glaze. Drizzle over the cooled pastries.

These turnovers are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature — great for parties or lunchbox treats.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To get started on this recipe, make sure you have the following tools:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Small saucepan
• Fork
• Pastry brush
• Mixing bowl (for glaze)

Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Turnovers

To take your cherry turnovers to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Drain cherries well to avoid soggy pastry. If using canned pie filling, reduce sugar accordingly.
• Keep pastry cold until you’re ready to use it. Warm pastry can become sticky and hard to work with.
• Don’t overfill. It’s tempting, but too much filling can cause leaks.
• Seal properly. Use a fork and press down firmly around the edges.
• Customize your glaze. Add almond extract for a bakery-style flavor boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Turnovers

It’s easy to get great results, but a few small errors can cause big issues. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the egg wash. This step gives your pastry that irresistible golden crust.
• Filling still hot. Make sure the cherry filling is slightly cooled before assembling.
• Opening the oven too soon. Puff pastry needs uninterrupted heat to rise properly.
• Overcrowding the tray. Give each turnover space to expand and brown evenly.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it can be made ahead and frozen. Here’s how:

• Make ahead: Assemble the turnovers and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours.
• Freeze: Assemble the turnovers and freeze them flat on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.
• Reheat baked turnovers in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

This makes them perfect for air fryer Christmas treats or easy freezable desserts you can pull out anytime guests pop in.

How to Serve Cherry Turnovers: Breakfast, Dessert & Beyond

Cherry turnovers are incredibly versatile. Here’s how to serve them for different occasions:

• Morning treat: Pair with yogurt and fruit for a sweet breakfast
• Afternoon snack: Serve with coffee or herbal tea
• Holiday dessert: Plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Party platter: Cut into smaller triangles and serve with toothpicks

Their crisp exterior and fruity center make them one of the most fun desserts for parties.

Fun Variations: Add Your Twist to These Cherry Turnovers

While this recipe is a classic, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

• Add cream cheese for a rich, tangy contrast to the cherries
• Use different fruits like blueberries, apples, or strawberries
• Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for extra texture
• Try puff pastry alternatives like phyllo dough for a lighter version
• Make mini turnovers for party-ready finger desserts

There’s no limit to the creative ways you can elevate these turnovers.

Perfect Pairings: What Goes Well With Cherry Turnovers

Wondering what to serve with cherry turnovers? Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Hot drinks: Herbal tea, spiced chai, or warm milk
• Cold drinks: Fruit smoothies, lemonade, or almond milk
• Sides: Whipped coconut cream, yogurt parfaits, or sliced fresh fruit
• Toppings: A dusting of powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, or drizzle of melted chocolate

These pairings make turnovers even more enjoyable and help them fit seamlessly into breakfast, brunch, or dessert menus.

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FAQs About Cherry Turnovers

Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes! Just pit and chop them, then cook with sugar and cornstarch as described.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry, which is available in specialty stores.

Can I air fry these turnovers?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden.

How long do cherry turnovers last?
They keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature, or 5 days refrigerated.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can substitute with flour or arrowroot starch in the same amount.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a holiday dessert spread or just want a delicious treat that’s easy to whip up, these Cherry Turnovers are a guaranteed hit. Flaky, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet, they’re perfect for all seasons and all occasions — from fruit Thanksgiving desserts to Christmas finger desserts for parties.

If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself — share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more cozy, delicious, and foolproof desserts. Happy baking!

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