Name: Butterscotch Pear Turnovers: Fall's Flaky Sweet Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Bosc Pears (or any firm pears if unavailable); 1/2 cup Butterscotch Sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (or apple pie spice for variation); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional); 1 sheet Frozen Puff Pastry (thawed and kept cold); 1 large Egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon Water (to bind the egg); 2 tablespoons Coarse Sugar (for topping)

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As I strolled through the farmers’ market last weekend, the aroma of ripe Bosc pears filled the air, pulling me into a sweet nostalgia of cozy autumn afternoons. That’s when the idea struck—why not create some Butterscotch Pear Turnovers? This delightful pastry marries the juicy sweetness of pears with rich butterscotch sauce and a sprinkle of warm spices, making for a perfect breakfast and dessert hybrid. With just three core ingredients, these turnovers are not only easy to whip up but also promise a comforting taste of fall in every flaky bite. Whether you impress the family over Saturday brunch or treat yourself on a quiet evening, these turnovers are bound to bring a smile. Curious about how to make them? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!

Why are Butterscotch Pear Turnovers irresistible?

Delightful Flavor Fusion: The sweet, tender Bosc pears combined with rich butterscotch sauce will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Effortlessly Simple: With just three core ingredients, these turnovers are beginner-friendly, perfect even for those busy weeknights.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful breakfast or a satisfying dessert; they fit any occasion effortlessly!

Perfectly Flaky: Thanks to the frozen puff pastry, you’ll achieve a crispy exterior that cradles a warm, gooey filling.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These turnovers will impress guests at brunch or simply bring a touch of warmth to your cozy evenings at home. If you’re interested in exploring other seasonal flavors, check out our guide to delicious fall-inspired desserts.

Butterscotch Pear Turnovers Ingredients

For the Filling
• Bosc Pears – Their sweetness and juiciness are perfect for this recipe; substitute any firm pears if unavailable.
• Butterscotch Sauce – This adds richness and sweetness; opt for store-bought ease or homemade for a personal touch.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor and warmth; can replace with apple pie spice for a festive variation.
• Ground Nutmeg – Offers a unique fall spice note; optional, but great for that autumn vibe.

For the Pastry
• Frozen Puff Pastry – This provides a flaky, light texture; make sure it’s thawed yet kept cold for best results.
• Large Egg – Used for the egg wash that creates a golden, shiny finish.
• Water – Helps bind the egg for that glossy wash.
• Coarse Sugar – For sprinkling on top, ensuring a delightful crunch that complements the turnovers.

Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these Butterscotch Pear Turnovers, and let your kitchen fill with the aroma of sweet delightful baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking. While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers will bake evenly and not stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Pear Filling
Peel, core, and dice the Bosc pears into small pieces, and place them in a mixing bowl. Add the butterscotch sauce alongside the ground cinnamon and optional nutmeg. Mix everything together gently until the pears are well-coated, creating a fragrant filling ready to be enveloped in pastry.

Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Take a sheet of thawed frozen puff pastry and flour your work surface lightly. Roll the pastry into a 10×10 inch square, ensuring it’s even and thin for optimal flakiness. Once rolled, cut the square into 4 equal squares, each about 5×5 inches, perfect for holding your delicious filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Turnovers
Place 2 tablespoons of the pear filling in the center of each pastry square, making sure not to overfill. Brush the edges of the squares with water to help seal them securely. Carefully fold each square over to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to prevent any filling from escaping during baking.

Step 5: Create the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat the large egg with a splash of water until well combined, creating a rich egg wash. Using a pastry brush, generously apply the egg wash to the tops of each turnover, giving them that beautiful golden sheen when baked.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top of each turnover for a sweet, crunchy finish. Additionally, use a sharp knife to cut three small slits on each turnover’s surface, allowing steam to escape while they bake and ensuring they puff up beautifully.

Step 7: Chill and Bake
Transfer the assembled turnovers to the prepared baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This chilling step helps the pastry maintain its shape while baking. After chilling, bake the turnovers in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Butterscotch Pear Turnovers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to handle. Enjoy them warm as an irresistible treat!

Expert Tips for Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Choose the Right Pears: Use firm Bosc pears for ideal texture and sweetness; overly ripe pears can turn mushy while baking.

Keep the Pastry Cold: Handle the frozen puff pastry as little as possible and keep it cold for a flakier texture in your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers.

Don’t Overfill: Make sure to place only 2 tablespoons of filling in each turnover; overfilling can lead to messy baking and burnt edges.

Pre-Chill Before Baking: Chilling assembled turnovers for 10 minutes in the freezer helps them maintain their shape and puff up nicely in the oven.

Allow to Cool: After baking, let the turnovers cool for 10 minutes before diving in, allowing the filling to set for easier handling and a delightful warm bite.

How to Store and Freeze Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Fridge: Keep leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their flaky texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked turnovers by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat baked turnovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to regain their crispiness before serving.

Thawing: If using frozen, bake directly from the freezer; just add an extra few minutes to the baking time for the best results with your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers.

Butterscotch Pear Turnovers: Sweet Variations

Customize your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers to suit your taste or dietary preferences; each variation adds a unique twist to this delightful pastry!

Different Pears: Swap Bosc pears for Granny Smith or Anjou for a tart contrast to the sweet filling. Each type brings its own character to the turnovers.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuts enhance the texture, balancing the softness of the pears beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of ginger or cardamom to the filling for an aromatic spice twist. This will elevate your turnovers, giving them a cozy, zesty note.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or dairy-free butterscotch instead of regular sauce for a delicious dessert that still captures that rich sweetness. Ideal for a dairy-sensitive crowd.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins along with the pear filling for a sweet, chewy surprise in every bite. It adds a pop of color and a delightful tang.
Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the turnovers for an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with the sweet filling and flaky crust.
Savory Spin: For a savory twist, consider adding crumbled bacon or cheese to the filling. This surprising combination makes for an irresistible brunch item.

Thinking about more ways to enhance your baking? Discover delightful ideas in our guide to seasonal pastry recipes!

What to Serve with Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Indulging in these sweet and flaky turnovers opens up a world of delightful pairings to complete your fall feast.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creamy richness that balances the turnovers’ sweetness and complements the warm spices beautifully.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the experience, providing a light and airy contrast to the flaky pastry.
Coffee: The robust flavors of freshly brewed coffee create a lovely harmony, making each bite even more enjoyable as you sip.
Chai Latte: Cozy spices in a chai latte echo the warmth of the cinnamon and nutmeg, offering a comforting warmth perfect for cool days.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruit adds freshness, contrasting nicely with the rich butterscotch and soft pear filling in each turnover.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances the indulgent experience, intensifying the sweet notes and inviting double-dipping delight.
Pecans or Walnuts: A side of toasted nuts provides a lovely crunch, enhancing the texture and bringing a savory balance to the sweetness.
Spiced Cider: A warm glass of spiced cider ties the whole meal together, delivering an aromatic fall experience with every sip.
Pumpkin Soup: As a light appetizer, a bowl of velvety pumpkin soup sets a cozy tone, making it a charming start to the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Butterscotch Pear Turnovers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling by peeling, coring, and dicing the Bosc pears, then mixing them with butterscotch sauce and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. You can also assemble the turnovers fully and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking; just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply brush with the egg wash, add the sugar, and bake straight from the refrigerator, allowing for just as delicious results with minimal effort. Enjoy these easy, comforting pastries on your busy mornings or as a sweet treat any time!

Butterscotch Pear Turnovers Recipe FAQs

What type of pears should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm Bosc pears for their sweetness and juiciness. Avoid overly ripe varieties as they can turn mushy upon baking. If you can’t find Bosc pears, try Granny Smith or Anjou pears as alternatives, which will lend a nice tartness to balance with the sweet butterscotch.

How should I store leftover Butterscotch Pear Turnovers?
Very simply! Store leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh while preserving their delightful flaky texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to reheat and regain their crispy exterior.

Can I freeze Butterscotch Pear Turnovers?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked turnovers, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can place the frozen turnovers directly into the oven, just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results!

What if my turnover edges are not sealing properly?
No worries! If you’re having trouble sealing your turnovers, it might be because the pastry edges are dry. Ensure that you brush enough water along the edges before folding, helping create a proper seal. If they’re still not sealing, you can use a fork to crimp the edges which also gives them an appealing design!

Are Butterscotch Pear Turnovers suitable for anyone with allergies?
Please be cautious! This recipe contains eggs, butter (from the pastry), and possibly nuts if you choose to add them. For those with gluten intolerances, consider using a gluten-free puff pastry as an alternative. Always check labels for allergens if you’re accommodating specific dietary needs.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the pear filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just remember to mix well before filling the pastries. This makes it a great option for busy days, allowing you to throw together the turnovers quickly on baking day!