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Sweet Lemon Cream Turnovers are a delightful pastry that combines the zesty brightness of lemons with a rich, creamy filling, all wrapped in a flaky, golden-brown crust. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, these turnovers are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. With the right balance of sweetness and tartness, this recipe will become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process of creating these delicious Sweet Lemon Cream Turnovers.
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut each sheet into squares, approximately 4×4 inches in size.
Step 4: Fill the Pastry Squares
Place a generous tablespoon of the lemon cream filling in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the turnovers with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color when baked. Sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top for added sweetness and crunch.
Step 7: Bake
Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the turnovers from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought lemon curd for a quicker option! Just mix it with cream cheese to achieve a creamy consistency.
How do I store leftover turnovers?
Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I freeze these turnovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked turnovers. Just prepare them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with Sweet Lemon Cream Turnovers?
These turnovers pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
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