If you are searching for the perfect sweet treat to brighten your day, this Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine flaky, golden puff pastry cushions enveloping luscious, slightly tart cherry pie filling that oozes out just enough with every bite. The heartfelt almond glaze adds a subtle nutty sweetness that ties everything together beautifully, making these turnovers not only irresistible but a delightful way to share joy with your loved ones. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, afternoon snack, or an impressive dessert, this recipe effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a magical pastry experience that you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that classic cherry-red charm that turns mouths watering before the first bite. The simplicity of the list belies the stunning result you’ll achieve.
- Cherry pie filling: Packed with juicy cherries and just the right sweetness, it’s the heart of these turnovers.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel undertone that deepens the flavor of the fruit filling.
- Cornstarch: Keeps the filling thick and perfect, preventing soggy pastries.
- Almond extract (or vanilla extract): Delivers that warm, fragrant hint that beautifully complements cherries.
- Puff pastry dough (2 sheets, thawed): The flaky, buttery blanket that makes every bite heavenly.
- Large egg: Used to brush the turnovers for that gorgeous, golden finish.
- Powdered sugar: The base of the sweet glaze that adds a delicate shine and extra indulgence.
- Milk: Helps the glaze reach the perfect drizzle consistency.
How to Make Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your turnovers won’t stick and that they bake evenly with a beautiful bottom crust.
Step 2: Mix the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the cornstarch dissolves and the flavors marry perfectly. This filling is what makes these turnovers tantalizingly juicy without being runny.
Step 3: Cut the Puff Pastry
Take one sheet of the thawed puff pastry and lightly roll it out on a clean, floured surface just to smooth it slightly. Cut it into six roughly 4×4-inch squares and arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for spreading. Repeat the same with the second sheet. This step sets the stage for crisp, flaky layers that will hold your luscious filling.
Step 4: Fill and Fold the Turnovers
Place about two tablespoons of the cherry mixture in the center of each square. Fold each square diagonally to make triangles and press the edges with a fork to seal them tight. This sealing step is key to keep all that delicious cherry goodness perfectly inside as they bake.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Beat the egg lightly and gently brush it over the tops of each turnover. This will give them a gorgeous golden sheen as they bake. Pop your trays into the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Watch as they puff up and turn beautifully golden. Once done, let them cool slightly right on the baking sheets to firm up.
Step 6: Make the Almond Glaze
While the turnovers cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of almond extract until smooth. The glaze should be just thin enough to drizzle easily. Drizzle this glaze over your turnovers, letting it settle into lovely glossy ribbons that add that extra layer of sweetness and charm.
How to Serve Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle these turnovers with a few slivered almonds before glazing for an elegant crunch. Fresh mint leaves on the side also add a pop of vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the sweet cherries.
Side Dishes
Pair these turnovers with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish. For breakfast, a cup of strong coffee or lightly brewed tea complements the almond notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cherry turnovers on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh cherries and edible flowers to impress guests. You could also slice them into bite-sized pieces for party platters, making sharing easier and extra fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The puff pastry tastes best fresh but resting them properly preserves their texture and flavor for a quick snack later.
Freezing
To freeze, bake the turnovers fully and cool them completely. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. This way, you can enjoy your Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated turnovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can soften the pastry too much.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, pit and chop roughly 2 cups of them, and cook gently with sugar and cornstarch to thicken before using as filling. This will give a fresher flavor but requires a bit more preparation.
Is there a vegan alternative for the egg wash?
You can brush the turnovers with a mixture of maple syrup and almond milk or a little melted coconut oil to achieve a golden crust without using egg.
Can I make these turnovers gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free puff pastry dough will work well. Just ensure all other ingredients, like your pie filling and glaze components, do not contain gluten.
How long do the turnovers stay fresh after glazing?
Once glazed, it’s best to eat the turnovers within 24 hours for optimum texture and taste, as the glaze may cause the puff pastry to soften over time.
What can I do if my turnovers leak filling during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork and avoid overfilling. Also, chilling the turnovers in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking can help the pastry hold its shape better.
Final Thoughts
Making these Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe is like creating a little moment of pure bliss to enjoy or share. The combination of flaky pastry, sweet-tart cherry filling, and that delicate almond glaze makes every bite a celebration. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for impressively effortless, comforting sweetness. So go ahead and bake a batch—you’ll be smiling from the very first bite!
Print
Cherry Turnovers with Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully flaky Cherry Turnovers filled with a sweet cherry filling, topped with a smooth almond glaze. This easy-to-make dessert features puff pastry filled with a cherry pie filling mixture, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a sweet vanilla or almond glaze that adds a lovely finishing touch. Perfect for any occasion and sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
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
- 1¼ cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or ½ teaspoon vanilla extract)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and almond extract. Stir thoroughly until well combined and the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
- Prepare puff pastry: On a clean, lightly floured surface, slightly roll out one puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 6 squares, approximately 4×4 inches each. Place these squares on one prepared baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart. Repeat this step with the second puff pastry sheet on the other baking sheet.
- Fill and fold: Place 2 tablespoons of the cherry filling mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold each square diagonally over the filling to form a triangle. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges thoroughly to prevent the filling from leaking 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 achieve a beautiful golden-brown color when baked.
- Bake the turnovers: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the turnovers are golden, puffed, and cooked through. Remove carefully from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond (or vanilla) extract until smooth and well combined.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle the glaze over each cooled turnover. Let the glaze set before serving. Enjoy your delicious cherry turnovers!
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed before use to prevent cracking and to make cutting easier.
- Seal the edges of the turnovers well with a fork to avoid any leakage of the cherry filling during baking.
- The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less milk depending on how thick or thin you prefer it.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if preferred.
- These turnovers can be served warm or at room temperature and are best enjoyed fresh.
