Calling all dessert enthusiasts! Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors as we dive into the realm of my Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers. This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when cherries meet creamy cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry. Prepare your taste buds for a sweet and tangy adventure!

Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 8 turnovers

Calories 158 kcal

Equipment

oven
1 baking sheet
1 medium bowl
1 electric mixer
8 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed

Ingredients

1 package fat free (or reduced fat) cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup low-fat (or fat free) cottage cheese
¼ cup sugar
1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 can dark sweet pitted cherries, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
Combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, sugar and vanilla in medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed until well blended, then gently fold in the cherries.
Spray 1 phyllo dough sheet at a time with cooking spray; fold the sheet lengthwise in half to form a rectangle. Sprinkle the rectangle with 2 tablespoons of the bread bread crumbs, and drop 1/3-cupful of the cherry-cheese mixture onto the upper left corner of the sheet.
Fold the right corner over the mixture to form a large triangle. Continue folding the turnover (like you would a flag) ending as a “layered triangle”. Repeat above steps with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling ingredients.
Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle tops of the turnovers lightly with cinnamon. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes (or until turnovers are lightly crisp and golden brown).

Video

Notes

Experiment with different fillings like blueberries or peaches to customize these turnovers to your liking. Don't forget to share your unique creations with me in the comments below!

Keyword Cherry

Alternative Method: Air Fryer Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers

If you’re looking for a quicker and more convenient way to make Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers, the air fryer is the perfect kitchen appliance to turn to. Follow this alternative method to achieve the same delicious results:

Ingredients:

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 cup cherry pie filling
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Mix well until fully combined.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Cut it into equal-sized squares, approximately 4×4 inches.
Spoon a tablespoon of the cherry-cheese filling onto the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.
Fold the pastry diagonally to form a triangle, enclosing the filling. Press the edges firmly to seal.
Brush the turnovers with the beaten egg wash, ensuring to coat the tops evenly.
Place the turnovers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them to allow for even cooking.
Cook the turnovers in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the turnovers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
Dust the turnovers with powdered sugar and serve warm.

Enjoy these flaky and delicious Air Fryer Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat any time of the day!

Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer. It’s recommended to keep an eye on the turnovers and adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

Cooking Tips

Preparing Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers requires a delicate touch and a few insider tricks to achieve perfection. Here are some valuable cooking tips to ensure the best results and avoid common pitfalls:

Master the dough: Use chilled butter and ice-cold water when making the pastry dough. This helps create a flaky texture that will make your turnovers truly exceptional.
Don’t overfill: When adding the cherry-cheese filling, be mindful not to overfill the turnovers. Leaving enough space allows the pastry to seal properly and prevents leakage during baking.
Seal it well: To ensure your turnovers stay intact while baking, make sure to seal the edges of the pastry securely. You can use a fork to press down and create a decorative pattern.
Brush with egg wash: Before placing the turnovers in the oven, brush the tops with a beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish.
Bake to perfection: Keep a close eye on your turnovers while they bake. Aim for a golden crust and a filling that is bubbly and oozing with deliciousness. Ovens may vary, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of this delightful dish:

Afternoon tea delight: Serve these turnovers as a sweet treat during afternoon tea gatherings. Their flaky crust and fruity filling will perfectly complement a cup of aromatic tea.
Brunch indulgence: Impress your brunch guests by adding Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers to the menu. Pair them with freshly brewed coffee and a side of mixed berries for a delightful start to the day.
Dessert for all occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration, these turnovers make a splendid dessert option. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of cherry sauce for an extra touch of decadence.
Picnic delights: Pack these turnovers for a picnic adventure. They are easy to transport and make for a delightful handheld treat amidst nature’s beauty.
Party pleaser: Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers can be a hit at parties or potlucks. Serve them on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and watch them disappear within minutes.

FAQs

Can I make the turnovers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turnovers in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore their flakiness.

Can I freeze the Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers?
Yes, you can freeze the turnovers before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.

How should I store any leftover turnovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them as the pastry may lose its flakiness.

Can I use a different fruit filling?
Absolutely! While cherries are a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruit fillings such as apples, peaches, or berries. Just ensure the fruits are not overly juicy to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.

Can I use store-bought pastry dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought pastry dough as a time-saving alternative. Follow the package instructions for thawing and handling, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Step into the realm of flaky goodness with our Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers recipe. Uncover the secrets to perfect pastry, discover serving suggestions to impress any audience, and find answers to your burning questions. Share the recipe with fellow food enthusiasts and don’t miss out on future mouthwatering recipes by subscribing to our blog!

Flaky and Fruity: How to Make Light Cherry-Cheese Turnovers