Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers are irresistible pastries that combine juicy strawberry jam and tangy cream cheese wrapped in a buttery, flaky puff pastry. Whether you are hosting brunch, craving a sweet snack, or want a decadent dessert after dinner, these turnovers deliver both flavor and simplicity. This recipe is approachable for home bakers of all levels and uses everyday ingredients like strawberry jam, cream cheese, and a sheet of puff pastry. In just 30 minutes, you can create golden‑brown turnovers with a sweet glaze that tastes even better than store-bought. Get ready to make a delightful treat the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers
These Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers are loved for so many reasons. First, the combination of sweet strawberry jam and slightly tangy cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced filling that is rich but never overpowering. The puff pastry bakes up beautifully, flaky and golden, giving you layers of delicate texture with each bite. This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for last‑minute gatherings or spontaneous cravings. The sweet glaze drizzled on top adds an extra touch of decadence. Best of all, you can customize the filling to suit your taste or what you have on hand. These turnovers are simply delicious and crowd‑pleasing.
Ingredients
To make these Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers, you will need:
For the turnovers
- 1 13.2 oz sheet of Wewalka puff pastry (or your preferred brand)
- 6‑8 tbsp homemade or store‑bought strawberry jam
- 2 oz softened cream cheese (divided)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten for egg wash
For the glaze
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Splash of milk or water
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers
- Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the puff pastry: If your puff pastry is frozen, thaw it according to package instructions. Unfold the sheet and gently roll it out into a square on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the puff pastry into 6 equal squares so each turnover has enough space for filling.
- Add the fillings: Place about ½ teaspoon of softened cream cheese in the center of each square. Spread it gently but leave room around the edges. Then add about 1 tablespoon of strawberry jam over the cream cheese.
- Seal the turnovers: Fold each square over into a triangle shape. Press the edges together and use a fork to crimp them well. The tighter the seal, the less likely the jam will leak while baking.
- Vent the tops: Use the fork or a toothpick to poke a couple of small holes on top of each turnover so steam can escape.
- Add the egg wash: Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash over the tops of the pastries to help them turn golden brown in the oven.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 14‑16 minutes, or until the turnovers are puffed up and a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer the turnovers onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Make the glaze: In a medium bowl whisk together 1 oz of cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk or water until the mixture is smooth. Adjust thickness as needed by adding more powdered sugar or milk.
- Glaze and serve: Once the turnovers are completely cool, generously drizzle the glaze on top. Add a small dollop of fresh jam if you like extra flavor and sparkle. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Helpful Tips
- Keep pastry cold: Working with cold puff pastry helps it puff up better in the oven. If it starts to get too soft while you are assembling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Prevent sogginess: Don’t overfill the turnovers or the jam may leak out. A tablespoon of jam is usually enough.
- Even baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Thicker glaze: For a more decadent glaze, add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Watch closely: Puff pastry can go from golden to too brown quickly, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Jam choices: Swap the strawberry jam for raspberry, blueberry, or mixed berry jam to change up the flavor profile.
- Fresh fruit: For extra texture, add a few small pieces of fresh strawberries to the jam before filling the pastry squares.
- Cream cheese mix‑ins: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a touch of honey to the cream cheese for a bright flavor twist.
- Vegan option: Use a dairy‑free puff pastry and replace the cream cheese with vegan alternatives. Use a plant‑based milk wash instead of egg.
- Savory version: For a savory twist, swap the jam for ricotta mixed with herbs and small bits of prosciutto or roasted peppers.
- Sweet crunch: Sprinkle a little coarse sugar on the turnovers before baking for a sweet crunch on the crust.
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store cooled turnovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. They are best eaten fresh.
- Refrigerator: You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked turnovers by arranging them on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen and increase the baking time by a few minutes.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the turnovers in a preheated 350°F (177°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it tends to make the pastry soft and soggy.
Nutritional Information
Here is an estimated nutrition summary per turnover, though exact values will vary based on portion size and ingredients used:
- Calories: Around 220–280 calories
- Fat: 12–16g
- Saturated Fat: 6–8g
- Carbohydrates: 24–32g
- Sugar: 12–18g
- Protein: 3–5g
- Fiber: 1–2g
These pastries are a delightful indulgence. You can adjust the filling and glaze amounts to make them slightly lighter if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar alongside a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. For brunch, pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, and sparkling mimosas. At dessert time, offer them vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence. They also make a thoughtful contribution to potlucks, bake sales, or holiday spreads.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers
Can I use store‑bought puff pastry?
Yes, store‑bought puff pastry works wonderfully. If using a brand without attached parchment, work on a floured surface and transfer carefully to a lined baking sheet.
Do the turnovers need to be refrigerated before baking?
No, but chilling them briefly if they become too soft can help maintain flakiness.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate for a few hours or freeze for longer storage. Bake directly from frozen with a slightly extended baking time.
Is it necessary to glaze them?
The glaze adds sweetness and a smooth finish, but you can skip it and sprinkle powdered sugar instead.
How do I prevent jam from leaking?
Seal the edges firmly with a fork and avoid overfilling.
Can I make mini versions?
Absolutely! Cut the pastry into smaller squares for bite-sized treats.
These turnovers are flexible, delicious, and perfect for many occasions.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for trying these delightful Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers! I love how the sweet strawberry jam and tangy cream cheese pair perfectly in every flaky bite. This recipe is easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and sure to become a favorite for brunch, snacks, or dessert. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing them as much as I do. Happy baking and thanks for being part of our community of food lovers!
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Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 turnovers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry and Cream Cheese Turnovers are quick, flaky pastries filled with sweet strawberry jam and creamy cheese. Baked until golden and drizzled with glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Make them in 30 minutes with just a few ingredients!
Ingredients
1 (13.2 oz) sheet Wewalka puff pastry (or any brand)
6–8 tablespoons strawberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
2 oz cream cheese, softened and divided
1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the puff pastry: If your puff pastry is frozen, thaw it according to package instructions. Unfold the sheet and gently roll it out into a square on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the puff pastry into 6 equal squares so each turnover has enough space for filling.
- Add the fillings: Place about ½ teaspoon of softened cream cheese in the center of each square. Spread it gently but leave room around the edges. Then add about 1 tablespoon of strawberry jam over the cream cheese.
- Seal the turnovers: Fold each square over into a triangle shape. Press the edges together and use a fork to crimp them well. The tighter the seal, the less likely the jam will leak while baking.
- Vent the tops: Use the fork or a toothpick to poke a couple of small holes on top of each turnover so steam can escape.
- Add the egg wash: Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash over the tops of the pastries to help them turn golden brown in the oven.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 14‑16 minutes, or until the turnovers are puffed up and a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer the turnovers onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Make the glaze: In a medium bowl whisk together 1 oz of cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk or water until the mixture is smooth. Adjust thickness as needed by adding more powdered sugar or milk.
- Glaze and serve: Once the turnovers are completely cool, generously drizzle the glaze on top. Add a small dollop of fresh jam if you like extra flavor and sparkle. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
If not using Wewalka pastry, make sure to thaw, flour surface, and use parchment paper.
Jam can be swapped for other flavors like raspberry or blueberry.
For mini turnovers, cut smaller squares.
Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep the crust crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American