Cherry Turnovers: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Introduction
There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the kitchen. One of my all-time favorites is cherry turnovers. These delectable treats have been a cherished recipe in my family for generations. Whenever I make them, the sweet and tangy filling combined with the flaky crust never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Join me on a culinary journey as I share the secret behind our beloved cherry turnover recipe. From the heartwarming story of how it came to be a family tradition to the step-by-step instructions, you’ll discover just how simple it is to recreate this crowd-pleasing dessert in your own kitchen.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Many years ago, I stumbled upon this recipe while going through my grandmother’s old recipe box. Tucked away among worn-out index cards and yellowed newspaper clippings was a handwritten note detailing the ingredients and method for making cherry turnovers. As I read through the instructions, memories of my childhood flooded back – the laughter, the love, and the tantalizing aroma that filled our home whenever these turnovers were baking in the oven.
My grandmother, who was an excellent baker, used to make these turnovers for special occasions. Whether it was a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a Sunday treat, these turnovers were always met with excitement and delight. They became a symbol of togetherness and the joy of sharing a delicious homemade dessert with loved ones.
Since that day, I have carried on the tradition of making cherry turnovers, not only to honor my grandmother’s memory but also to create new memories with my own family. Now, let’s dive into the recipe and recreate the magic in your kitchen.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make these mouthwatering cherry turnovers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
Now, let’s get started with the preparation:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled and cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the cold water, a few tablespoons at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In the meantime, prepare the cherry filling. In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are tender. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Take one of the chilled dough disks and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut the dough into circles.
Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a turnover shape, then press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Transfer the turnovers to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle some sugar on each turnover.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the turnovers are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the delightful aroma and the burst of cherry goodness with every bite!
Variations
If you’d like to put a unique twist on the classic cherry turnovers, here are a few variations you can try:
1. Apple Cinnamon Turnovers: Replace the cherries with thinly sliced apples and add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling.
2. Blueberry Lemon Turnovers: Swap the cherries for fresh blueberries and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
3. Chocolate Raspberry Turnovers: Substitute the cherry filling with a combination of melted chocolate and fresh raspberries for a decadent treat.
Feel free to experiment with different fruits and flavors to create your own signature turnovers!
Keto-Friendly Version
If you’re following a keto diet or looking for a low-carb alternative, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of cherry turnovers. Here’s a keto-friendly version of the recipe:
For the dough, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use coconut oil instead of butter. The filling can remain the same, as cherries are relatively low in carbs. Just be mindful of the sugar content and use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
By making these simple substitutions, you can indulge in a guilt-free keto cherry turnover that satisfies your cravings without derailing your diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the filling.
2. Can I make the turnovers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turnovers in advance, freeze them, and bake them whenever you’re ready. Just follow the recipe until the step where you place the turnovers on the baking sheet. Instead of baking, place the sheet in the freezer until the turnovers are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to bake them, simply place the frozen turnovers on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I use puff pastry instead of making the dough from scratch?
If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of store-bought puff pastry, you can certainly use it as a shortcut. Just follow the package instructions for thawing and handling the pastry sheets, then proceed with the cherry filling and baking as usual.
In Conclusion
Cherry turnovers are a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. With a tender crust and a luscious cherry filling, they are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family gathering to an elegant dinner party. By following this cherished family recipe, you can create your own memorable moments filled with the irresistible aroma and delightful taste of homemade cherry turnovers.
So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave everyone craving for more. Happy baking!
