If you're a fan of baked goods, then you're probably familiar with the deliciousness of a cherry turnover. Weighing in at 99 g, a single serving of this pastry packs a whopping 300 calories. So, if you're watching your calorie intake but still want to indulge in a sweet treat, read on to find out more about cherry turnovers.
Not only are cherry turnovers a delicious treat, but they also contain some beneficial nutrients. One serving of a cherry turnover contains about 3.5 g of protein, 35 g of carbohydrates, and 15 g of fat. Additionally, cherry turnovers provide small amounts of iron and calcium.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional information of cherry turnovers, how they're made, and some variations you can try at home. We'll also discuss the benefits of cherry turnovers, and offer some suggestions for when to enjoy them.
What is a Cherry Turnover?
A cherry turnover is a type of pastry that features a sweet, fruit-filled center. The pastry dough is typically flaky and buttery, giving the turnover a satisfying crunch. The traditional filling for a cherry turnover is made with tart cherries, sugar, and a thickener like cornstarch. Cherry turnovers are often enjoyed as a sweet breakfast item or a dessert. They can be found in many bakeries and coffee shops, and are also easy to make at home. If you're a fan of cherry pie or other fruit-filled pastries, then you'll love a cherry turnover. They're a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also enjoying the natural sweetness of cherries.
As mentioned earlier, a single serving of a cherry turnover (99 g) contains 300 calories. It also has 15 g of fat, 35 g of carbohydrates, and 3.5 g of protein. Additionally, a cherry turnover provides small amounts of calcium and iron. While cherry turnovers are not exactly a health food, they do contain some beneficial nutrients. Cherries, for example, are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The flaky pastry dough used to make cherry turnovers is also a source of carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. If you're looking to indulge in a sweet treat, then a cherry turnover can be a good choice every once in a while. Just be sure to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Calories in a Cherry Turnover
As mentioned earlier, a single serving of a cherry turnover (99 g) contains 300 calories. This can vary slightly depending on the brand or recipe, but most cherry turnovers will fall within the same calorie range. If you're watching your calorie intake, a cherry turnover may not be the best choice for an everyday snack. However, you can still enjoy them as an occasional treat. If you're concerned about the calorie content of a cherry turnover, try making your own at home with healthier ingredients. You can use a whole-wheat pastry dough and substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.
Ingredients of a Cherry Turnover
The ingredients of a cherry turnover can vary depending on the recipe, but most will include the following:
- Puff pastry or pie crust
- Tart cherries
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Egg wash
- Optional: lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon
To make cherry turnovers, the puff pastry or pie crust is rolled out and cut into squares. The cherry filling is then spooned onto one half of the square, and the other half is folded over to create a triangle shape. The edges are crimped with a fork to seal the turnover, and then it's brushed with an egg wash and baked until golden brown.
How to Bake a Cherry Turnover?
Baking a cherry turnover is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Here's how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
- Roll out your puff pastry or pie crust and cut it into squares.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and any additional flavorings.
- Spoon the cherry filling onto one half of the pastry square.
- Fold the other half of the square over to create a triangle shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the turnover with an egg wash to give it a shiny finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Once your cherry turnovers are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle a glaze over the top.
Variations of Cherry Turnover
While traditional cherry turnovers are delicious, there are many variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Use a different fruit filling, like blueberries or peaches.
- Add some nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different spices, like cinnamon or cardamom.
- Try using a different type of pastry dough, like croissant dough or filo dough.
- Serve your turnovers warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream on top.
With so many delicious variations to try, you'll never get bored of cherry turnovers.
Benefits of Cherry Turnover
While cherry turnovers may not be the healthiest food choice, they do provide some beneficial nutrients. Cherries, for example, are known for their antioxidant content and ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, enjoying a sweet treat every once in a while can help to boost your mood and satisfy your cravings. So, while you shouldn't make cherry turnovers a part of your daily diet, you can still enjoy them as an occasional indulgence. Just be sure to pair your cherry turnover with some healthy snacks or meals to balance out your diet.
Cherry Turnover: Perfect for Any Occasion
From breakfast to dessert, cherry turnovers are the perfect pastry for any occasion. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day, or serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert. Cherry turnovers also make a great party or potluck item. They're easy to transport and serve, and are sure to be a hit with any crowd. Plus, with so many variations to try, you can always come up with a new and exciting flavor combination. So, next time you're in need of a sweet treat, pick up some cherries and puff pastry and whip up a batch of cherry turnovers.
Cherry Turnover vs Other Pastries
Compared to some other pastries, cherry turnovers are a relatively light option. For example, a croissant can contain up to 300 calories and 20 g of fat, while a doughnut can contain over 400 calories and 25 g of fat. However, if you're looking to make a healthier choice, there are still better options available. Choosing a plain bagel, for example, will provide you with a similar number of calories but less fat. Ultimately, the best pastry for you is the one that fits into your overall diet and satisfies your cravings. If you love cherry turnovers, then go ahead and enjoy them in moderation.
Conclusion
Cherry turnovers are a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert. While they're not the healthiest food choice, they do provide some beneficial nutrients and can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence. Whether you enjoy traditional cherry turnovers or experiment with some exciting variations, there's no denying the sweet and satisfying flavor of this classic pastry. So, next time you're in the mood for a sweet treat, whip up a batch of cherry turnovers and enjoy every delicious bite.
Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.
5 FAQs About Cherry Turnovers
1. How many calories are in a cherry turnover?
A 99g cherry turnover contains around 300 calories.
2. Does a cherry turnover contain any healthy nutrients?
While a cherry turnover may contain some healthy nutrients from the fruit filling, it is generally considered a high-calorie, high-sugar treat with minimal nutritional value.
3. Can I incorporate a cherry turnover into a balanced diet?
It is possible to enjoy a cherry turnover as an occasional treat in the context of a balanced diet. However, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods in your diet.
4. Are there any precautions I should take before eating a cherry turnover?
If you have any allergies or intolerances to ingredients commonly found in cherry turnovers (such as wheat or dairy), it is important to check the label or consult with a medical professional before consuming them.
5. Are there any alternatives to cherry turnovers that are lower in calories?
There are many healthier alternatives to cherry turnovers, such as fruit salads, smoothies, or even homemade fruit-based baked goods made with whole-grain flour and natural sweeteners.