Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers From Scratch

These homemade turnovers are flaky, sweet, and comforting. Enjoy warm treats that bring back nostalgic memories.

Growing up in the South, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the enchanting aroma of sweet potatoes and warm spices. Indeed, every Sunday afternoon, she would lovingly craft these old-fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch while sharing stories of her own childhood. Furthermore, the moment she pulled those golden-brown treasures from the oven, my siblings and I would gather around, eagerly waiting for them to cool just enough to taste. Consequently, these cherished memories have inspired me to share this treasured family recipe with you today. Discover more sweet potato recipes

Sweet Potato Turnovers

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Turnovers

• Sweet Potatoes – The heart of the dish! You’ll need 1 cup of mashed sweet potato, roughly two medium-sized potatoes.
• Spices – A warm blend of ground cinnamon and nutmeg brings cozy, autumn-like flavors.
• Brown Sugar – Adds natural sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
• Puff Pastry Sheets – Found in the refrigerated section, these create a flaky, buttery crust.
• Mini Marshmallows (optional) – A fun touch that adds a sweet, gooey center reminiscent of classic sweet potato casserole.
• Egg Wash – One egg whisked with a little water ensures a beautifully golden, crisp exterior.

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!

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Secret Tips for a Delicious From Scratch Sweet Potato Turnover Filling

Comparatively, brown sugar offers a richer taste. Butter brings creaminess, so use a small dollop. Explicitly, test your filling’s sweetness before you move on. Indeed, it’s simpler to adjust flavors now rather than later. This ensures a balanced filling that pairs well with the lightweight, buttery crust.

Crafting the Perfect Dough 

Flour & Fat Ratio: the right ratio of flour to butter creates a tender crust. Generally, use about two cups of flour to a stick or so of cold butter. Initially, cut the butter into cubes. Then, crumble it into the flour until you have pea-sized bits. Accordingly, these bits form pockets that lead to flakiness when baked.

Mixing & Kneading Techniques: be careful not to overwork the dough. Too much handling toughens it. Eventually, stir in enough cold water to form a manageable ball. Always follow short, gentle kneading. Particularly, a light hand helps you achieve a flaky, crisp crust. Consequently, your pastry remains delicate.

Serving Suggestions & Flavor Variations

Enhance your old-fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch by serving them with whipped cream or a light glaze. Pair these treats with coffee, tea, or spiced cider for a cozy experience. To add variety, consider incorporating spices like cardamom or allspice into the filling. You could also mix in shredded coconut or raisins for a unique twist. Seasonal toppings like toasted pecans or powdered sugar can elevate the presentation, while a drizzle of melted chocolate offers a creative flair.

FAQs About Making Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers

What brings out the flavor of sweet potatoes?

Baking or roasting sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness, while spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg complement their flavor.

How do you make sweet potato jacks?

Sweet potato jacks are a fried version of turnovers. The process involves similar steps, but with frying to achieve a crispy texture.

Why do you need to soak sweet potatoes before frying?

Soaking helps reduce starch, making the sweet potatoes crispier when fried.

Do you have to boil sweet potatoes before baking?

Boiling is not necessary before baking, but it can be done to soften them quickly if needed.

Should you poke holes in sweet potatoes before baking?

Poking holes allows steam to escape, ensuring even cooking.

What is the best cooking method for sweet potatoes?

Baking often brings out the most flavor, but each method, whether boiling or roasting, offers different textures and tastes.

Is it better to bake sweet potatoes in foil or not?

Foil retains moisture, affecting the texture, so personal preference plays a role.

How long do sweet potatoes take in the oven?

Typically, they take 40-60 minutes at 375°F, depending on size.

What tastes better, boiled or baked sweet potatoes?

Baking usually intensifies sweetness, while boiling yields a softer texture.

Conclusion

Relish homemade sweet potato turnover for their humble warmth. Go ahead and make this for a friend, family, or as the center that will overpower the gathering with cheer. Find tons of other interesting recipes like these treats on our website.

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