Plum Turnovers

Plum Turnovers are an absolute delight, combining sweet, juicy plums encased in flaky pastry. You’ll find every bite offers a taste of summer, even if you’re enjoying them in the fall or winter. Making these turnovers is more than just a cooking activity; it’s a chance to create wonderful moments in the kitchen with your family or friends. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress or simply want a cozy snack for yourself, these turnovers bring joy with every flaky layer.

As you prepare, imagine the warm aroma filling your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. The process is straightforward, and trust me, once you make these Plum Turnovers, you’ll want to whip them up again and again. So grab your aprons, let’s dive into this delicious recipe. You won’t just satisfy your cravings; you’ll create a tasty memory worth cherishing!

Why This Recipe Works

When it comes to baking, a little science goes a long way—especially with flaky pastry. The secret lies in using chilled butter and cold water, which create those delightful layers in the dough. When you handle the dough, you want to keep everything chilled; this is crucial. Warm ingredients can lead to a tough pastry rather than a light and airy one.

Now let’s talk about the star of our recipe: plums. Their balance of sweetness and tartness is simply perfect. This combination enhances the flavor of the turnovers, making the filling bright and satisfying. Each bite offers that nice contrast of sweet and tangy, creating a treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Plum Turnovers

You might wonder why this recipe should be on your must-try list. First, the flavor! The perfect balance of sweet and tangy from the plums makes each turnover a delight. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to introduce your family to baking. Getting everyone involved can turn it into a fun activity.

The versatility of these Plum Turnovers is another reason to love them. You can serve them as a dessert, an afternoon snack, or even a brunch addition. They pair well with a cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream, making them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Plum Turnovers

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 12 tablespoons (6 ounces) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 8-10 tablespoons ice water
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 2 1/2 cups sliced plums (about 6-7 plums)
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Gather your ingredients, and let’s move to the next step!

Preparing the Dough for Plum Turnovers

Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk them together to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This simple step lays a solid foundation for your dough.

Incorporate Butter

Next, it’s time to cut the cold butter into your dry mixture. You can use a pastry blender, a fork, or your hands—whatever works best for you! The goal here is to create a texture that resembles coarse crumbs. It’s so satisfying to see the chunks of butter blend into the flour!

Add Vinegar and Ice Water

Now it’s time to add the vinegar and ice water. Gradually mix these into the dough, being careful not to overhydrate. You want the mixture to come together but still be slightly crumbly. This step is key to achieving that flaky texture we all love.

Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. Chilling helps relax the gluten and makes rolling it out easier. If you can wait longer, letting it chill overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

Making the Plum Filling

Prepare the Plums

While your dough chills, let’s focus on the filling. Slice the plums and toss them in a bowl with the granulated sugar and cornstarch. This combination will help thicken the juices and create a luscious filling. Plus, the sugar draws out that juicy goodness from the plums, making the filling extra special.

Assembling the Plum Turnovers

Preheat the Oven

Before you start assembling, preheat your oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help your turnovers bake evenly and prevent sticking.

Roll Out Dough

Take the chilled dough and cut it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch circle on a floured surface. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little irregularity adds charm to your handmade treats.

Fill and Seal Turnovers

Place a spoonful of plum filling in the center of each circle. Brush the edges with the beaten egg—this acts as glue to help seal the turnover. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to secure.

Create Ventilation Slits

Before they hit the oven, make a few small cuts on top of each turnover. These little slits allow steam to escape while baking, so your pastries stay crisp and golden.

Baking the Plum Turnovers

Bake Until Golden

Place the assembled turnovers in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want that beautiful golden color on your pastry. As they bake, the aroma of plums will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Serving Suggestions

Once your turnovers are cool enough to handle, serve them warm. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making a delicious dessert. If you want to elevate them even further, drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar. These little touches add flair that makes your turnovers even more irresistible.

Tips for Success

• Cold Ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold is essential for a flaky texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until it just comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough turnovers.
• Refrigerate if Needed: If your dough starts to soften while you’re assembling, pop it back in the fridge for a bit.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruits! Substituting fresh plums for peaches, berries, or apples can lead to delightful variations. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling introduces a warm flavor profile that’s simply delicious.

Storage Tips

If you have any turnovers left over, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze unbaked turnovers; just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy them.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of any excess liquid before using.

2. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for longer.

3. How can I prevent the filling from leaking?
Be sure to seal the edges well by crimping, and applying the egg wash helps keep everything intact.

4. What is the best way to reheat leftover turnovers?
Reheat in a preheated 350ºF oven for about 10-15 minutes to keep the pastry nice and flaky.

5. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with whatever fruit you love.

So, savor the sweet tang of these Plum Turnovers as you make and enjoy them with your loved ones! They truly are a delightful treat, perfect for any gathering or for simply enjoying at home. Happy baking!

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