Indulge your sweet tooth with these delectable Super easy fruit + cheese turnovers. Picture this: flaky layers of puff pastry enveloping a luscious filling of sweet strawberry jam and creamy cream cheese. With each bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance of buttery pastry, fruity sweetness, and creamy indulgence.
But before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore some fascinating tidbits about puff pastry and the ingredients that make these turnovers so irresistible.
Puff Pastry: A Culinary Wonder
Puff pastry is a marvel of culinary engineering, consisting of countless layers of butter and dough that puff up to create light, flaky pastry when baked. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was first developed by skilled bakers who understood the science behind creating layers of dough separated by butter.
In the centuries since its invention, puff pastry has become a staple in kitchens around the world, used to create both sweet and savory dishes. From classic pastries like croissants and palmiers to savory pies and tarts, puff pastry is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish.
Fruit jam is a beloved spread that’s been enjoyed for centuries. It’s the perfect complement to the buttery richness of puff pastry, adding a touch of sweetness and tanginess to every bite.
Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that adds richness and creaminess to both sweet and savory dishes. In these Super easy fruit + cheese turnovers, it serves as the creamy filling that balances out the sweetness of the fruit jam. When baked, the cream cheese becomes soft and melty, creating a luxurious texture that’s utterly irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 Puff Pastry Dough box (found in the freezer section, thawed according to package instructions)
- Strawberry jam
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten
- 1/2 8 oz cream cheese block, cut into long blocks/rectangles
- melted butter (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Unwrap the puff pastry dough and cut it into 8 squares (4 from each dough).
- Place a cream cheese block and a heaping tablespoon of strawberry jam in the center of each square at a diagonal
- Brush the edges of the squares with the beaten egg white.
- Fold over the squares to enclose the pie filling, pressing the edges together to seal.
- Cut a “star” at the top of the puff pastry to release the steam when baking and brush the top with melted butter (optional)
- Place the turnovers on an un-greased baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown.
- Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
- When ready to serve, dust the turnovers with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Additional Tips:
- Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Try using different flavors of jam or preserves, or experiment with adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- These Super easy fruit + cheese turnovers are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the pastry is at its flakiest and the filling is warm and gooey. However, they can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two and reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Serve these turnovers as a delightful dessert at your next brunch or tea party, or enjoy them as a sweet snack any time of day.
Super easy fruit + cheese turnovers are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. With their buttery, flaky pastry and creamy, fruity filling, they’re a true indulgence for the senses. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them as a dessert at your next gathering, these turnovers are guaranteed to be a hit. So, grab a puff pastry dough, some strawberry jam, and cream cheese, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats. Your taste buds will thank you!
