Pear Turnovers
Delicate pear turnovers with flaky puff pastry and a hint of black pepper, perfect for elegant desserts or afternoon treats paired with creme fraiche.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll out the puff pastry dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut out four 6-inch circles.
- Brush the edges of each dough circle with egg wash made from egg yolk and water.
- Thinly slice the pears, then add sugar and 2 or 3 turns of black pepper from the peppermill.
- Toss the pear slices with the sugar and pepper mixture in a bowl.
- Divide the pear mixture evenly and place it in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops of the turnovers with egg wash.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with a side of creme fraiche for garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pear filling. If you don't have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough or make a simple shortcrust pastry instead. Ensure the pears are ripe for maximum sweetness and tenderness. Remember to keep the dough cold while working to ensure a flaky texture.
Serving Suggestions
These pear turnovers are delightful when served warm. Pair them with a dollop of creme fraiche or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also complement a light salad, such as buttered Belgian endives, for a balanced meal. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pear Turnovers contains roughly 442 calories, with 12g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pears, but be sure to drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Cut them into similar-sized slices and reduce the amount of sugar as canned pears are often sweeter.
How can I make these turnovers vegan?
To make vegan turnovers, use a plant-based puff pastry and substitute the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup. This will give the turnovers a nice sheen while keeping them completely vegan.
What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute pears with apples or peaches for different flavor profiles. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit. A mix of fruits can also create a delightful combination, adding a unique twist to your turnovers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).