Are you a fan of sweet treats? One popular snack to try is the Cherry Turnover or Dumpling. Made with flaky pastry and filled with sweet cherry filling, this snack is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. But if you are conscious about your calorie intake, it’s important to know that one turnover cherry turnover or dumpling contains 238 calories.

However, the Cherry Turnover or Dumpling is not just about indulging in a sweet treat. It’s also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Let’s take a closer look at this snack and learn about its calorie content, health benefits, and possible disadvantages.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies on how to make Cherry Turnover or Dumpling at home, alternatives to try, ways to reduce the calorie content, and best serving suggestions. Let’s get started.

What is a Cherry Turnover or Dumpling?

A Cherry Turnover or Dumpling is a pastry filled with cherry filling. It is a type of turnover, which is a pastry made by placing a filling on a piece of dough, folding the dough over, and sealing it to create a pocket. The pastry is then baked until golden brown and crispy. The cherry filling is typically made of cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and sometimes lemon juice. The filling is cooked until it thickens and is then placed inside the pastry pocket. Some recipes also call for the addition of almond extract or cinnamon for extra flavor. Cherry Turnovers or Dumplings can be found in bakeries, coffee shops, and supermarkets. They can be served as a snack, dessert, or breakfast pastry option.

Calorie Content of Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

As mentioned, one turnover Cherry Turnover or Dumpling contains 238 calories. This calorie count may vary depending on the size and ingredients used to make the pastry and filling. For example, some recipes may include butter or cream cheese in the pastry dough, which can increase the calorie content. If you are watching your calorie intake, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and how often you indulge in this treat. You can also try some of the tips we’ll share later on to reduce the calorie content.

Why is Cherry Turnover or Dumpling a Popular Snack?

Cherry Turnover or Dumpling is a popular snack because it offers a sweet and satisfying treat in a convenient handheld form. It can be enjoyed on the go or as a dessert after a meal. Additionally, the pastry and filling are customizable, so you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Some recipes even call for savory fillings like ham and cheese, making the turnover a versatile dish for any time of day.

Health Benefits of Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

While the Cherry Turnover or Dumpling is a tasty treat, it also offers some health benefits. The pastry itself contains some fiber, while the cherry filling is a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help support a healthy immune system and fight off infections. Meanwhile, potassium is an electrolyte that can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. Some studies have also linked cherries to reduced inflammation and improved sleep quality.

Possible Disadvantages of Consuming Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

While the Cherry Turnover or Dumpling has some health benefits, it’s important to be mindful of its potential disadvantages. As mentioned, it contains a significant amount of calories, so it’s not a good option if you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a low-calorie diet. Additionally, some commercial Cherry Turnovers or Dumplings may contain added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors, which can be detrimental to your health if consumed in excess. It’s important to read labels and choose products that use natural ingredients and are free from harmful additives.

How to Make Cherry Turnover or Dumpling at Home

Making Cherry Turnover or Dumpling at home is easier than you might think. To make the pastry, you’ll need flour, butter, salt, and ice water. Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl, cut in the butter until it forms pea-sized pieces, and gradually add the ice water until the dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour. To make the cherry filling, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan and cook until thick and bubbly. Let the mixture cool before using it as a filling. Roll out the pastry dough and cut it into squares. Spoon the cherry filling onto the center of each square, fold the pastry over to create a pocket, and seal the edges with a fork. Bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy. Homemade Cherry Turnover or Dumpling is a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought options, and you can customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.

Alternatives to Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

If you’re not a fan of Cherries, or you want to try something different, there are many alternatives to Cherry Turnover or Dumpling that you can try. Some popular options include apple turnover, blueberry turnover, peach turnover, or empanadas. Empanadas are similar to turnovers but are typically filled with savory ingredients like meat, cheese, and vegetables. You can also try making your own turnovers or empanadas at home with different fillings to find your favorite flavor.

Ways to Reduce the Calorie Content of Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie content of Cherry Turnover or Dumpling, there are several ways to do so. First, you can use a lighter pastry dough that contains less butter or cream cheese. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia to reduce the sugar content of the filling. You can also make mini turnovers instead of large ones to reduce the portion size and calorie content. Another tip is to use fresh cherries instead of canned or frozen ones, which may contain added sugars or preservatives.

Best Serving Suggestions for Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

Cherry Turnover or Dumpling can be served as a dessert or snack, and there are several ways to enjoy it. You can serve it warm or cold, on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add extra toppings to the pastry before baking, like a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts. For breakfast, you can pair Cherry Turnover or Dumpling with a cup of coffee, tea, or orange juice for a refreshing start to the day.

Where to Buy Cherry Turnover or Dumpling

Cherry Turnovers or Dumplings can be found in bakeries, coffee shops, and supermarkets. Some popular places to buy Cherry Turnovers or Dumplings include Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Panera Bread. You can also order them online from specialty pastry shops or make your own at home using the recipe we shared earlier.