Introduction
If you’re searching for a dessert that combines flaky pastry, creamy cheesecake, and the sweet freshness of strawberries, Strawberry Cheesecake Turnovers are an irresistible choice. These handheld desserts are perfect for brunches, afternoon treats, or a show-stopping addition to any dessert table. With golden, buttery pastry pockets filled with a luscious mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and strawberries, every bite offers the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
These turnovers are surprisingly easy to make, whether you use store-bought puff pastry or make your own. The combination of tangy cream cheese with sweet strawberries is classic, and the flakiness of the pastry adds a delightful crunch. They are perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a bakery-quality dessert at home. This guide will walk you through every step, with tips, variations, and serving suggestions for creating the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Turnovers.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling:
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, diced (or ½ cup strawberry preserves/jam)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (if using fresh strawberries)
Optional Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tsp milk
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, toss diced strawberries with 1 tablespoon sugar if using fresh berries.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth edges. Cut the sheet into 4 equal squares (or 6 for smaller turnovers).
Step 4: Assemble the Turnovers
Place 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Add a spoonful of strawberries on top. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the top of each turnover with the beaten egg. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Step 6: Optional Glaze
If desired, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a glaze. Drizzle over the slightly cooled turnovers before serving.
Variation
- Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Turnovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling.
- Mixed Berry Turnovers: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, on top of the filling before folding.
- Mini Turnovers: Make bite-sized turnovers for parties or brunch spreads.
Cooking Note
- Make sure puff pastry is cold before baking; this helps it puff up beautifully.
- Do not overfill the turnovers, or the filling may leak while baking.
- Egg wash ensures a golden, glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert table at parties.
- Great for packed snacks, picnics, or tea-time treats.
Tips
- Chill turnovers for 10-15 minutes before baking if the pastry becomes too soft during assembly.
- Use a fork to press and seal edges to prevent filling from leaking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in a warm oven before serving.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
18-20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
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