Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Freshly baked old-fashioned sweet potato turnovers on a wooden table

Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers From Scratch

These homemade sweet potato turnovers are a nostalgic treat with a flaky, golden-brown crust and a rich, spiced sweet potato filling. Inspired by traditional Southern recipes, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack. Topped with a maple glaze, these turnovers are a delightful blend of sweetness and warmth.

  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 4 turnovers 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • ¼ cup mini marshmallows (optional)
  • 1 egg, whisked with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add cubed sweet potatoes and cook until fork-tender.
  3. Mash Until Smooth – Drain the potatoes and mash them until completely smooth and creamy.
  4. Mix the Filling – Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
  5. Prepare the Puff Pastry – Let the pastry sheets soften at room temperature, then unfold and cut each into four equal squares.
  6. Fill & Fold – Spoon about two tablespoons of the sweet potato filling onto each square. If using, place six or seven mini marshmallows on top. Fold the pastry into a triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal.
  7. Arrange & Brush – Place turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Lightly brush the tops with egg wash.
  8. Bake to Perfection – Transfer to the oven and bake until the pastries are golden brown and flaky.
  9. Serve & Enjoy – Drizzle the warm turnovers with the maple glaze, then dig in!

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, chill the filled turnovers for 5-10 minutes before baking.
  • If you don’t have puff pastry, use homemade or store-bought pie dough.
  • To add texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or shredded coconut inside the filling.
  • Author: Joël
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern, American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per Turnover
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 140mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Sweet potato turnovers, old-fashioned turnovers, homemade pastry, Southern dessert, maple glaze