Here’s a simple and delicious homemade Cherry Turnovers recipe that uses puff pastry and a quick cherry filling. You can also use canned cherry pie filling if you’re in a pinch.
🍒 Homemade Cherry Turnovers
Ingredients
For the cherry filling:
-
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
-
1/3 cup granulated sugar
-
1 tbsp cornstarch
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
-
Pinch of salt
For the pastry:
-
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (from a 17.3 oz package with 2 sheets)
-
1 egg (for egg wash)
-
1 tbsp water
For the glaze (optional):
-
1/2 cup powdered sugar
-
1–2 tbsp milk or cream
-
1/4 tsp almond or vanilla extract (optional)
🥣 Instructions
1. Make the Cherry Filling
-
In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
-
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the cherries release their juices (5–7 minutes).
-
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water. Stir into the cherry mixture.
-
Cook another 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
-
Let the filling cool completely before using.
2. Prepare the Turnovers
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Lightly flour a surface and roll out the puff pastry slightly. Cut into 4 equal squares.
-
Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of the cooled cherry filling into the center of each square.
-
Fold each square into a triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
-
Whisk the egg with 1 tbsp water and brush over the tops of the turnovers.
-
Cut a small slit or poke holes in the top for steam to escape.
3. Bake
-
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
-
Let cool on a wire rack.
4. Glaze (Optional)
-
Mix powdered sugar with milk and extract (if using) until smooth.
-
Drizzle over cooled turnovers.
✅ Tips
-
Shortcut: Use canned cherry pie filling instead of making your own.
-
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
-
Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes to crisp them up again.