August 28th celebrates National Cherry Turnover Day, a delightful homage to the tasty and sweet hand pies filled with cherries. Best savored warm, these pastries are equally delightful at room temperature. Enhance the experience by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an undoubtedly doubled delight.

Origins and History

The history of cherry turnovers is tied to the broader history of pastries and the use of cherries in cooking:

• Pastry Origins: The concept of wrapping sweet or savory fillings in a dough dates back centuries. Turnovers, which are a type of hand pie, likely originated in Europe, where various cultures have their own versions of filled pastries.
• Cherries in Cuisine: Cherries have been cultivated and enjoyed since ancient times, prized for their sweet and tart flavor. They have been used in a variety of culinary applications, from desserts to savory dishes.
• American Tradition: Cherry turnovers became popular in America as European immigrants brought their baking traditions with them. The abundance of cherries in the United States, particularly in states like Michigan and Washington, helped cement cherry turnovers as a favorite treat.

The Significance of Cherry Turnovers

Cherry turnovers hold a special place in dessert culture for several reasons:

• Flavorful Combination: The combination of flaky pastry and sweet-tart cherry filling creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that many people love.
• Versatility: Cherry turnovers can be enjoyed warm or cold, as a dessert or snack, and they pair well with a variety of beverages such as coffee, tea, or milk.
• Simplicity: Despite their impressive appearance and taste, cherry turnovers are relatively simple to make, making them accessible to home bakers of all skill levels.

Ways to Celebrate National Cherry Turnovers Day

There are many enjoyable and delicious ways to celebrate National Cherry Turnovers Day:

1. Bake Cherry Turnovers at Home: Try making your own cherry turnovers using a classic recipe. Experiment with different types of pastry dough and fillings to create your perfect version.
2. Visit a Bakery: Support local bakeries by purchasing cherry turnovers. Many bakeries offer freshly baked turnovers, allowing you to enjoy this treat without the effort of baking.
3. Host a Baking Party: Invite friends and family over for a cherry turnover baking party. Share recipes, tips, and enjoy the process of baking together.
4. Share on Social Media: Share photos of your cherry turnovers or your experiences enjoying them on social media using the hashtag #NationalCherryTurnoversDay. Connect with other cherry turnover enthusiasts and exchange recipes and ideas.
5. Learn About Cherries: Take the time to learn more about the history and cultivation of cherries. Explore different cherry varieties and their uses in cooking and baking.
6. Try New Recipes: Experiment with different variations of cherry turnovers, such as adding a drizzle of glaze, using different types of cherries, or incorporating other fruits and flavors.

Classic Cherry Turnover Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for making classic cherry turnovers:

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the pastry into squares (about 4-5 inches each).
4. Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
5. Brush with Egg Wash: Transfer the turnovers to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the turnovers are golden brown and puffed.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the turnovers cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.

Fun Facts About Cherries and Turnovers

• Cherry Varieties: There are over 1,000 varieties of cherries grown worldwide, with sweet cherries and tart cherries being the most common types used in cooking and baking.
• Nutritional Benefits: Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They have been associated with various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving sleep quality.
• Turnover Variations: While cherry is a popular filling, turnovers can be made with a wide range of fillings, including apples, blueberries, peaches, and savory options like meat or cheese.

Conclusion

National Cherry Turnovers Day is a celebration of a delightful and versatile pastry that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re baking cherry turnovers at home, enjoying them at a bakery, or sharing your creations with friends and family, this day is all about savoring the delicious combination of flaky pastry and sweet-tart cherry filling. On August 28th, take the time to indulge in cherry turnovers, explore new recipes, and appreciate the joy of this classic treat.