Name: Butterscotch Pear Turnovers - Flaky Fall Delights to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups Bosc pears, diced (Swap with any firm pear if Bosc isn’t available.); 1/2 cup Butterscotch sauce (Store-bought or homemade versions work well.); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (Adjust for more or less spice as per preference.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg (Optional, but highly recommended.); 1 pack Frozen puff pastry, thawed (Keep it cold for best results.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash.); 1 tablespoon Water (For egg wash.); 1 tablespoon Coarse sugar (Sprinkle on top before baking.)

As I pulled the warm, golden-brown Butterscotch Pear Turnovers from the oven, the sweet aroma of caramelized pears and spices wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. This delightful pastry melds soft Bosc pears with rich butterscotch sauce and a hint of cinnamon, all enveloped in flaky puff pastry—a perfect celebration of fall flavors. With just three simple ingredients for the filling and only 40 minutes of your time, these easy pastries straddle the line between breakfast and dessert, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether shared at a festive brunch or savored alone with a cup of coffee, they promise to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. What’s the first occasion on your calendar that calls for a little sweet indulgence?

Why are Butterscotch Pear Turnovers a Must-Try?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: The richness of butterscotch paired with the natural sweetness of Bosc pears creates a comforting, nostalgic experience that perfectly encapsulates fall.

Three Simple Ingredients: You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip these up with just three key components for the filling—perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute dessert plans.

Versatile Indulgence: These turnovers are a cross between breakfast and dessert, making them ideal for any occasion, from cozy brunches to elegant dinner parties.

Flaky Perfection: With a golden, flaky pastry that perfectly encases the warm filling, each bite is a delightful blend of textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Quick and Simple: Ready in just 40 minutes, you can satisfy your sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a win-win for any busy home chef!

Butterscotch Pear Turnover Ingredients

• Elevate your baking with these easy ingredients for a delicious treat!

For the Filling

Bosc pears – Adds natural sweetness and juicy texture; you can swap with any firm pear if Bosc isn’t available.
Butterscotch sauce – Provides rich sweetness and depth; both store-bought and homemade versions work well.
Ground cinnamon – Enhances flavor with warmth; adjust for more or less spice as per your preference.
Ground nutmeg – Offers a hint of complexity and warmth; optional, but highly recommended for a true fall flavor.

For the Pastry

Frozen puff pastry – Serves as the base for turnovers, providing that irresistible flakiness; ensure it is thawed but still cold for best results.
Large egg – Used for the egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish on your pastries.
Water – Mixed with the egg for egg wash; helps the pastry brown evenly.
Coarse sugar – Sprinkled on top for added texture and sweetness before baking; this gives an irresistible crunch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers from sticking during baking. This step ensures a crisp and easy cleanup once your pastries are baked to perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Peel, core, and dice your Bosc pears into small pieces, aiming for uniformity for even cooking. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pears with butterscotch sauce, ground cinnamon, and optional ground nutmeg. Stir gently until the pears are well-coated, creating a sweet and spicy filling that truly embodies the essence of fall.

Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Take your thawed but still cold frozen puff pastry and roll it out to a square measuring about 10×10 inches on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the pastry into four equal squares. Keep the pastry cold as you work; this helps maintain its flaky texture in the finished Butterscotch Pear Turnovers.

Step 4: Assemble the Turnovers
Place 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each pastry square, ensuring not to overfill to prevent spillage. Brush the edges of each square with a small amount of water to help seal the pastry. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, and use a fork to crimp the edges securely, creating a delightful pocket for the warm pear filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one large egg and a splash of water until well combined. This egg wash will give your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers a beautiful golden-brown finish as they bake. Brush the mixture generously over the surface of each turnover, ensuring to cover them completely for an even color.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Slice a few small slits on top of each turnover to allow steam to escape during baking. This step not only helps with cooking but also adds to the visual appeal. Once done, place the turnovers on your prepared baking sheet and chill them in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm up before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Turnovers
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake the Butterscotch Pear Turnovers for 23-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the final minutes to avoid over-baking. You want the exterior to be crisp and flaky while the inside remains deliciously gooey.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the turnovers from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This cooling time allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, for an indulgent treat that everyone will adore!

Expert Tips for Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Choose the Right Pears: Use firm Bosc pears for the best texture; overly ripe pears may turn mushy during baking.
Maintain Puff Pastry Temperature: Keep the puff pastry cold while handling it to ensure maximum flakiness in your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers.
Avoid Overfilling: Limit your filling to 2 tablespoons per turnover to prevent spillage while baking.
Make Your Own Butterscotch Sauce: For an even richer flavor, consider making your own butterscotch sauce; it’s easier than you think!
Cool Before Serving: Allow the turnovers to cool for about 10 minutes to let the filling set slightly, making them easier to serve.

Butterscotch Pear Turnovers: Customizations Await!

Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing these delightful turnovers with your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Caramel Swap: Replace butterscotch sauce with caramel for a different, yet equally sweet experience. Your taste buds will be pleased!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch. The added texture complements the softness of the pears beautifully.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique, aromatic twist. Each spice brings its own warmth, elevating the fall flavors even further.
Fruit Fusion: Combine Bosc pears with diced apples or even cranberries for an unexpected burst of tartness and depth. This mix will surely surprise your guests!
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter in place of egg wash for a vegan option that doesn’t compromise on the golden finish.
Flavored Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from icing sugar and vanilla on top once cooled for an extra layer of sweetness.
Cheese Delight: Add a sprinkle of cream cheese to the filling for a rich and creamy surprise that pairs beautifully with butterscotch and pear.
Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños to the filling. It’s a fun twist for the adventurous eaters!

If you’re excited to experiment with flavors, consider making your own homemade butterscotch sauce to take these turnovers to the next level. It’s easier than you think! What variations will you try first?

How to Store and Freeze Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

Room Temperature: Store leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the turnovers for up to 5 days; simply reheat in the oven to restore their flaky texture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooked turnover in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen for about 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Reheating: Always reheat in the oven for best results, as it helps maintain the delicious flakiness in your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers while warming the gooey filling.

Make Ahead Options

These Butterscotch Pear Turnovers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—diced Bosc pears mixed with butterscotch sauce, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the pears from browning. Additionally, you can assemble the turnovers entirely and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. Before serving, brush the turnovers with the egg wash and bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade pastries ready with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every cozy bite on your busy days!

What to Serve with Butterscotch Pear Turnovers

As you savor the warm, flaky delight of these pastries, consider adding complementary dishes that elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm turnovers, enhancing the flavors while adding a delightful chill.
Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the turnovers, inviting a cozy moment anytime during the day.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top provides a luscious, airy texture that pairs wonderfully with the buttery filling.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Light, sugary donuts add a delightful crunch that mirrors the flakiness of the turnovers, creating a fun texture contrast.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the turnovers deepens the sweet experience, adding another layer of richness and indulgence.
Apple Cider: This seasonal beverage brings a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the pastry, making for a perfect fall pairing.
Warm Tea: A cup of herbal or spiced tea envelops you in warmth while complementing the spices in the turnovers, creating a serene end to your meal.
Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent twist that enhances the butterscotch and pear flavors beautifully.
Pear Salad: A crisp salad made with mixed greens, sliced pears, and nuts adds freshness and crunch, contrasting with the pastry’s warmth and richness.
Pumpkin Bread: This sweet and spiced bread echoes the flavors of fall, making it a perfect side to enjoy alongside these delightful turnovers.

Butterscotch Pear Turnovers Recipe FAQs

What kind of pears work best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm Bosc pears are preferred for their sweetness and juicy texture. If Bosc isn’t available, you can substitute with other firm varieties like Anjou or Bartlett. Just make sure they are not overly ripe, as that can lead to a mushy filling during baking.

How can I store leftover turnovers?
Store any leftover Butterscotch Pear Turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for about 5 days. Just reheat in the oven to restore their delightful flakiness—pop them back in at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes; they’ll taste as good as fresh!

Can I freeze these turnovers?
Yes! You can freeze them to enjoy later. After baking, let the turnovers cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through and golden.

What should I do if my pastry isn’t flaky?
The key to flaky pastry is keeping your puff pastry cold throughout the process! If you notice it’s getting warm and difficult to work with, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Also, avoid overworking the dough; gentle handling preserves those lovely layers. If they still don’t turn out flaky, your butter may have been too warm when assembling, so chill everything well next time.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you have allergies, be cautious of the ingredients especially concerning nuts or gluten. This recipe is not nut-free due to the potential use of nut-based butterscotch sauces; however, you can opt for nut-free alternatives if needed. Also, check your puff pastry for any animal products if you’re keeping a vegan diet, as many brands contain butter.

Can I use homemade butterscotch sauce instead of store-bought?
Very! Making your own butterscotch sauce can add a layer of richness and customization to your Butterscotch Pear Turnovers. To make it at home, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of butter, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is simmering, then cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until thickened. Let it cool before using in your turnovers.