National Cherry Turnover Day celebrates the beloved pastry that combines flaky dough with sweet cherry filling. This delightful treat, known for its portable nature and delicious taste, has become a staple in American bakeries and homes.

Quick Facts

When is it?: August 28th annually
Tagged as: Food & Drink, Desserts, Pastries
What’s the hashtag?: #CherryTurnoverDay
When was it founded?: Unknown
Who founded it?: Origin unclear

History

The turnover’s history dates back centuries, with the first mention of “cherry turnover” appearing in 1780. Originally developed as portable pies, these pastries evolved from savory meat pies in France. German monks at Maulbronn monastery are credited with inventing turnovers, allegedly to disguise meat consumption during Lent.

Timeline

  • 1600s: Cherries introduced to North America by English colonists
  • 1780: First documented mention of “cherry turnover”
  • 1850s: Rise in popularity among pastry chefs
  • 1900s: Mass production and commercialization begins

Dates by Next Year

YearDateDay
2025Aug 28Thursday
2026Aug 28Friday
2027Aug 28Saturday
2028Aug 28Monday
2029Aug 28Tuesday

Observed

The celebration typically involves baking or purchasing cherry turnovers, sharing them with friends and family, and experimenting with different recipes and variations.

Fun Facts About Cherry Turnovers

  • Puff pastry requires extra fat for its signature flaky texture
  • There are over 1,000 cherry varieties in the United States
  • Turnovers are also known as “portable pies”
  • They can be either baked or deep-fried

Quiz

  1. When was the first cherry turnover documented?
  2. What monastery is credited with inventing turnovers?
  3. How many cherry varieties exist in the US?
    (Answers: 1780, Maulbronn, Over 1,000)

FAQs

Q: Can cherry turnovers be served cold?
A: Yes, they can be enjoyed both hot and cold.

Q: What makes the pastry flaky?
A: Extra fat content in the puff pastry dough.

Importance of Cherry Turnover Day

This celebration highlights culinary heritage, promotes baking traditions, and brings people together through shared enjoyment of this classic pastry.

Related

  • National Pie Day
  • National Pastry Day
  • National Cherry Month
  • National Dessert Day
  • National Baking Day