Name: Cherry Turnovers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cherry pie filling; 2 Tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch; 1/8 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 1 roll puff pastry dough, thawed (one roll per batch, typically 2 rolls per package); 1 large egg (for egg wash); 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 Tablespoons milk; 2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract (to keep the icing white)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 73 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a delightful pastry that bursts with sweet, tangy cherry flavor and flaky, buttery layers, this Cherry Turnovers Recipe is just what you need. These turnovers combine the ease of store-bought puff pastry with a luscious cherry filling that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of almond and brown sugar. Finished with a glossy vanilla glaze, they make an irresistibly charming treat that’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The first image shows a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface filled with bright red cherry pie filling at the bottom, topped with light brown sugar clumps and a small mound of white powdered sugar or cornstarch on one side, creating a contrast of shiny red and matte tan and white textures. The second image shows a light cream-colored sheet of pastry dough laid flat on the same white marbled surface, with clean straight lines cut to form twelve rectangular sections, and a black pizza cutter partially visible in the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cherry Turnovers Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the flaky puff pastry to the sweet and thick cherry filling that provides color, texture, and that unmistakable burst of fruity goodness.

1 cup cherry pie filling: The star of the show, offering vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
2 Tablespoons brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry filling to prevent sogginess.
1/8 teaspoon almond extract (optional): A subtle flavor enhancer that complements the cherries beautifully.
1 roll puff pastry dough, thawed: Flaky and buttery, it forms the perfect golden crust.
1 large egg: For the egg wash, creating that irresistible golden color and shine.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: Base for the vanilla glaze, adding sweetness and a pretty finish.
1-2 Tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for perfect drizzling.
2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract: Keeps the glaze white while adding lovely vanilla flavor.

How to Make Cherry Turnovers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Start by mixing the cherry pie filling with brown sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of almond extract if you’re using it. Stir everything well until the cornstarch dissolves completely. This step thickens the filling, so it stays nicely inside the turnovers without seepage, giving you a perfectly filled pastry every time.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry

Unroll your thawed puff pastry gently on parchment paper. Cut it into approximately 4×4-inch squares—the perfect size for hand-held turnovers that bake up evenly and puff beautifully.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Spoon about a tablespoon of your cherry filling right into the center of each square. Then fold each square diagonally to form a neat triangle. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly. This not only seals in the filling but also gives your turnovers that charming homemade look.

Step 4: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the beaten egg over each turnover’s surface to help them achieve a gorgeous golden brown color in the oven. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until they are puffed up and irresistibly golden.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

After baking, let the turnovers cool on a wire rack to set up before drizzling the vanilla glaze. Combine powdered sugar, milk, and clear vanilla extract to whisk up a smooth glaze that adds a sweet finishing touch and extra shine.

How to Serve Cherry Turnovers Recipe

The image shows a close-up of golden brown triangular pastries arranged on a black metal cooling rack over a white marbled surface. Each pastry has multiple thin flaky layers with a visible red jam filling inside. A woman's hand is holding a spoon that is drizzling smooth white icing over the top pastry, creating a contrast against the golden texture. The icing drips slightly down the sides of the pastry, adding a glossy and fresh look. The left side of the image shows a clear glass bowl filled with powdery white sugar on the same white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special presentation, sprinkle powdered sugar over the turnovers once the glaze has set, or add a few fresh cherries or mint leaves on the side. This not only brightens up the plate but also hints at the delicious fruit inside.

Side Dishes

Cherry turnovers pair delightfully with a cup of rich coffee or a simple glass of cold milk. For a brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with some wholesome freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these turnovers in individual dessert bowls with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert that feels special. You can also create mini turnovers by cutting smaller squares for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling fresh, ready to enjoy without losing the turnover’s signature flakiness.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked, assembled turnovers by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is perfect for prepping ahead and having cherry turnovers ready whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

Warm your turnovers in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to revive the crispy layers and soften the filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll want to cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling that won’t make the pastry soggy. This allows for fresh flavor with the right texture.

What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?

Simply omit the almond extract if you don’t have it on hand. The cherry filling will still be flavorful and delicious without it, although the almond adds a lovely fragrant note.

Is puff pastry dough difficult to work with?

Not at all! Using store-bought puff pastry simplifies the process immensely. Just be sure to thaw it properly and keep it cool to maintain its flaky texture when baking.

Can I make these turnovers gluten-free?

To make gluten-free cherry turnovers, use a gluten-free puff pastry substitute available in many specialty stores, and double-check that your pie filling and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I get the glaze to be white and not yellowish?

Using clear vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla keeps the glaze a pure white color, which looks more appealing on the bright red cherry turnovers.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Turnovers Recipe is a charming and surprisingly simple way to bring a touch of classic pastry delight into your kitchen. The combination of flaky puff pastry with luscious, fruity cherry filling and a sweet vanilla glaze is always a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how easy it is to craft these elegant treats at home — you might just find your new favorite dessert or breakfast pastry!