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Delicious Date Turnovers

85 min 8 turnovers Medium
Date turnovers are a delightful pastry treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with a flaky, buttery crust. This version of date turnovers is made with a simple homemade pastry and a rich date filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavours. This recipe is great for those who enjoy baking from scratch but want something a bit different than the usual fruit pies or cookies. Whether you're serving them as a dessert, a snack, or a special breakfast treat, these turnovers are sure to impress with their rich taste and beautiful presentation.

Instructions

1

Prepare the pastry

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Pro tip: Work quickly to keep the butter cold.

2

Add water to dough

Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just holds together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Do not overwork the dough to keep it flaky.

3

Make the date filling

In a small saucepan, combine dates, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until dates are soft and the mixture is thick, about 10 minutes. Stir in vanilla and let cool.

Pro tip: Mash dates with a fork for a smoother filling.

4

Roll out the pastry

Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 3mm (1/8 inch) thick. Cut into 10cm (4 inch) squares.

Pro tip: Flour your rolling pin to prevent sticking.

5

Fill and fold turnovers

Place a tablespoon of date filling in the centre of each square. Fold in half diagonally to form triangles and press edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.

Pro tip: Brush edges with water for a better seal.

6

Bake the turnovers

Place turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh Medjool dates for the best flavour.
  • Chill the dough for easier handling.
  • Seal the edges well to prevent leakage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a date turnover?

A date turnover is a pastry filled with a sweet date mixture, folded, and baked until golden.

How many calories are in a date turnover?

Each date turnover contains approximately 250 calories.

Can I make date turnovers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze them unbaked, then bake as needed.

How do you store date turnovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

What kind of dates are best for turnovers?

Medjool dates are preferred for their rich flavour and soft texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these date turnovers warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For storage, keep the turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in a warm oven to refresh their crispness.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

3g

Protein

13g

Fat

32g

Carbs