There’s something timeless and heartwarming about the aroma of fresh cherry turnovers baking in the oven. It takes me right back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where flaky pastries cooled on the windowsill and cherry filling bubbled like a pot of ruby-red treasure. Her Homemade Cherry Turnovers were the kind of recipe that drew the family together, no matter the time of year. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a hot summer day or warm with a cup of tea in the middle of winter, they never failed to delight.
This recipe is inspired by classic American comfort baking. With just a few simple ingredients—puff pastry, cherry filling, and an egg—you’ll have a bakery-worthy treat ready in under an hour. And since we’re going all in on flavor and flaky texture, I’ll guide you through every step to make sure your Homemade Cherry Turnovers come out golden and delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Cherry Turnovers
- Quick and Easy – Just a handful of ingredients and no special equipment.
- Seasonally Versatile – Light enough for summer, cozy enough for winter.
- Perfect for Any Skill Level – Great for beginner bakers and experienced pros.
- Family-Friendly Favorite – Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, tart filling and buttery pastry.
Ingredients (Yields 7 Turnovers)
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (fresh or canned)
For Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Toppings:
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- Powdered sugar glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tablespoons milk)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Pastry brush
- Fork
- Small bowl (for egg wash)
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently roll each sheet into a 10×10-inch square. Cut each sheet into 4 even squares (you’ll get 8 total, one extra for good measure).
3. Fill with Cherry Goodness
Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill or it will ooze out during baking.
4. Fold and Seal
Fold each square into a triangle. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly, sealing the filling inside.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash for that golden, glossy finish.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and golden brown.
7. Cool and Glaze
Let the turnovers cool slightly before adding a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple glaze.
Optional Glaze Recipe
For an extra sweet touch, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the turnovers once they’ve cooled for at least 10 minutes.
Tips for the Best Cherry Turnovers
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours or at room temp for about 30 minutes. Don’t rush this!
- Use Cold Pastry: Work quickly once the pastry is thawed—cold dough puffs better.
- Seal Well: Crimp those edges well to avoid filling leaks.
- Vent the Pastry: Add a small slit to the top of each turnover to allow steam to escape.
Easy Variations to Try
- Cheese & Cherry: Add a small spoonful of sweetened cream cheese with the cherry filling for a creamy twist.
- Almond Twist: Stir a few drops of almond extract into the cherry filling.
- Mixed Berry: Use a blend of blueberries and cherries for a mixed fruit filling.
- Savory Option: Skip the sugar and try a savory version with cheese and ham.
Perfect Pairings
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream in summer
- Hot cocoa or spiced tea in winter
- Fresh whipped cream or crème fraîche
- A dusting of cinnamon sugar for a fall touch
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked turnovers on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
- To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which makes the pastry soggy.
When to Serve These Homemade Cherry Turnovers
These flaky cherry-filled pastries are perfect for:
- Breakfast or brunch spreads
- Holiday dessert trays
- Afternoon tea
- Potlucks and picnics
- Valentine’s Day treats
Healthier Substitutes
- Low-Sugar Cherry Filling: Use homemade cherry compote with minimal sugar.
- Whole Wheat Puff Pastry: Look for whole-grain varieties for added fiber.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pastry dough (available in specialty grocery stores).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cherry turnovers ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and freeze before baking. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely. Try apples, peaches, or even Nutella and banana!
Why is my puff pastry not rising?
The dough may have been too warm. Always keep it chilled until baking time.