Decadent Ozark Peach Turnovers: A Taste of Southern Comfort

Peach season in the Ozarks is a time of pure joy. The air is thick with the sweet scent of ripe fruit, farmers’ markets overflow with baskets of golden orbs, and everyone seems to be dreaming up new ways to enjoy the bounty. While a simple grilled peach or a classic cobbler is always welcome, sometimes you crave something a little more…decadent. That’s where these Ozark Peach Turnovers come in. They’re flaky, buttery, bursting with juicy peaches, and finished with a glaze that will have you licking your fingers. Get ready to experience a taste of Southern comfort in every bite!

## Why These Peach Turnovers Are Special

These aren’t just any peach turnovers; they’re inspired by the unique flavors and traditions of the Ozark region. Here’s what sets them apart:

* **Ozark Peaches:** We’re using the best, most flavorful peaches we can find – preferably local Ozark varieties if possible. Their sweetness and slight tang are essential to the overall taste.
* **Homemade Puff Pastry (Optional, But Recommended):** While store-bought puff pastry works in a pinch, homemade pastry takes these turnovers to another level. The extra effort is worth it for the unparalleled flakiness and buttery richness.
* **Brown Sugar and Bourbon Spice:** Instead of plain white sugar, we’re using brown sugar in the filling for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. A splash of bourbon (or bourbon extract) adds a touch of sophistication and enhances the peach flavor.
* **Cinnamon and Nutmeg:** A warm spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg complements the peaches perfectly, adding a cozy, comforting aroma.
* **Cream Cheese Filling (Optional):** Adding a touch of cream cheese to the filling creates a rich and decadent texture that pairs wonderfully with the peaches.
* **Vanilla Bean Glaze:** A simple glaze made with vanilla bean extract and powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the finished turnovers.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious Ozark Peach Turnovers:

**For the Puff Pastry (or use store-bought):**

* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into cubes
* 1 cup ice water

**For the Peach Filling:**

* 6 medium ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
* 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon bourbon (or 1 teaspoon bourbon extract)
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional)

**For the Egg Wash:**

* 1 large egg
* 1 tablespoon milk or water

**For the Vanilla Bean Glaze:**

* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla bean extract

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large mixing bowl (for pastry and filling)
* Pastry blender or food processor (for pastry)
* Rolling pin
* Knife or pizza cutter
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper
* Small bowl (for egg wash)
* Pastry brush
* Whisk (for glaze)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get down to the fun part – making these amazing Ozark Peach Turnovers! Follow these detailed instructions carefully for best results.

### Part 1: Making the Puff Pastry (Optional, Skip if using store-bought)

If you’re opting for homemade puff pastry, this is the most time-consuming part of the recipe, but trust me, it’s worth it! If you’re using store-bought, skip to Part 2.

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or a food processor to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should still be in small pieces – don’t overmix!
3. **Add Ice Water:** Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to add too much water; you want a slightly shaggy dough.
4. **Form a Rectangle:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a rectangle.
5. **First Turn:** Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Fold the dough in thirds, like a letter. This is called a single turn. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. **Second Turn:** Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Position the dough so that the folded edge is on your left. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick again. Fold the dough in thirds again. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. **Third and Fourth Turns:** Repeat the rolling, folding, and refrigerating process two more times, for a total of four single turns. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes between each turn. The more turns you do, the flakier your pastry will be!
8. **Rest:** After the fourth turn, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to work with.

### Part 2: Preparing the Peach Filling

While the puff pastry is chilling (or if you’re using store-bought), you can prepare the peach filling. This is a quick and easy process.

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the diced peaches, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, bourbon (or bourbon extract), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently toss to coat the peaches evenly.
2. **Add Cream Cheese (Optional):** If using cream cheese, add the softened cream cheese to the bowl and gently stir until it’s evenly distributed throughout the peach mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness or spices to your liking. You can add more brown sugar for a sweeter filling, or more cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer flavor.

### Part 3: Assembling the Turnovers

Now it’s time to put everything together and create those beautiful turnovers!

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Roll Out the Pastry:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. If using store-bought pastry, unfold it and gently roll it out to even it out.
3. **Cut into Squares or Circles:** Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the pastry into squares (about 4-5 inches) or circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). You should be able to get about 8-12 turnovers from a standard package of puff pastry.
4. **Fill the Turnovers:** Place a spoonful (about 2-3 tablespoons) of the peach filling in the center of each square or circle. Be careful not to overfill them, as the filling may leak out during baking.
5. **Fold and Seal:**
* **For Squares:** Fold the pastry over diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal.
* **For Circles:** Fold the pastry over in half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal.
6. **Egg Wash:** In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water). Brush the tops of the turnovers with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color.
7. **Cut Slits (Optional):** Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of each turnover. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the turnovers from bursting.
8. **Bake:** Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
9. **Cool:** Remove the turnovers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

### Part 4: Making the Vanilla Bean Glaze

While the turnovers are cooling, you can prepare the vanilla bean glaze.

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla bean extract until smooth. Add more milk or cream if needed to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the turnovers but thin enough to drizzle easily.
2. **Glaze the Turnovers:** Once the turnovers are completely cool, drizzle the vanilla bean glaze over the tops. You can also dip the tops of the turnovers into the glaze for a thicker coating.
3. **Let Set:** Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. This will allow it to harden slightly and create a beautiful finish.

## Tips for Success

* **Keep the Butter Cold:** When making homemade puff pastry, it’s crucial to keep the butter as cold as possible. This will help create those flaky layers. If the butter starts to melt, the pastry will be greasy and won’t puff up properly.
* **Don’t Overwork the Dough:** Overworking the puff pastry dough will develop the gluten and make it tough. Handle the dough gently and avoid kneading it too much.
* **Use Ripe Peaches:** Ripe peaches will have the best flavor and texture for the filling. However, avoid using overly ripe peaches, as they may be too soft and mushy.
* **Adjust the Sweetness to Your Liking:** The amount of brown sugar in the filling can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter filling, add more brown sugar. If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
* **Don’t Overfill the Turnovers:** Overfilling the turnovers can cause the filling to leak out during baking. Be sure to use only a spoonful or two of filling for each turnover.
* **Seal the Edges Tightly:** Make sure to seal the edges of the turnovers tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal.
* **Let the Turnovers Cool Completely Before Glazing:** Glazing the turnovers while they’re still warm can cause the glaze to melt and run off. Be sure to let the turnovers cool completely before glazing them.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Other Fruits:** Feel free to experiment with other fruits in the filling. Apples, berries, and cherries would all be delicious in these turnovers.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
* **Spices:** Experiment with different spices in the filling. Cardamom, ginger, and cloves would all be delicious additions.
* **Bourbon Extract:** If you don’t have bourbon, you can use bourbon extract instead. Or, you can simply omit the bourbon altogether.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the filling for a brighter flavor.
* **Store-Bought Pie Crust:** If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of puff pastry. However, the turnovers won’t be as flaky.

## Serving Suggestions

These Ozark Peach Turnovers are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even a snack.

* **Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.**
* **Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.**
* **Bring them to a potluck or picnic.**
* **Give them as gifts to friends and family.**

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover turnovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen turnovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 300-400 per turnover (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Saturated Fat: 8-15 grams
* Cholesterol: 30-50 mg
* Sodium: 100-200 mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
* Fiber: 2-4 grams
* Sugar: 20-30 grams
* Protein: 3-5 grams

## Conclusion

These Decadent Ozark Peach Turnovers are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Southern comfort. Whether you make your own puff pastry or take the shortcut with store-bought, the combination of flaky pastry, juicy peaches, and sweet vanilla glaze is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a taste of Ozark sunshine in every bite! These turnovers are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Enjoy!