How to Make Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers from Scratch

If you love warm, comforting pastries, then you need to try making old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch. These flaky, golden-brown turnovers are filled with a rich, spiced sweet potato filling that melts in your mouth. With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, each bite brings out the best of sweet potato’s natural sweetness.

Making these turnovers from scratch may sound like a challenge, but trust me, it’s easier than you think! I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from preparing the flakiest pastry dough to getting the perfect balance of spices in your filling. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or just because you’re craving something special, these turnovers will quickly become a family favorite.

What Are Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers?

Old fashioned sweet potato turnovers are hand-held pastries made with a rich, buttery dough wrapped around a spiced sweet potato filling. These turnovers are typically baked or fried until golden brown, creating the perfect balance of crisp pastry and soft, flavorful filling.

They have been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations and are often enjoyed as a breakfast treat, dessert, or special holiday indulgence. Some versions include a light glaze for extra sweetness, while others keep it simple, allowing the warm spices and flaky crust to shine.

My Love for These Classic Turnovers

Growing up, my grandmother made the best sweet potato turnovers, and they were always a highlight of our family gatherings. I remember the excitement of watching her roll out the dough, carefully spooning the filling, and sealing each turnover with a fork before sliding them into the oven.

For me, making these turnovers isn’t just about the taste—it’s about the tradition and love that goes into every step. Now, whenever I make them in my own kitchen, I feel like I’m carrying on a family legacy, filling my home with the same warm, spiced aroma that I grew up with.

Ingredients for the Perfect Sweet Potato Turnovers

To make these turnovers, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the flaky pastry dough and the sweet potato filling:

For the Pastry Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)

For the Egg Wash (Optional for a Golden Finish):

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk or water

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to making the best homemade sweet potato turnovers that are rich, flavorful, and wrapped in a perfectly golden crust.

How to Make Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Turnovers from Scratch Step by Step

Trust me, making old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it! Every time I bake these, the rich, flaky crust and perfectly spiced sweet potato filling take me right back to my favorite homemade treats. They’re indulgent, comforting, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just treating yourself, I promise these turnovers will impress everyone—yourself included!

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling

1. Cook the sweet potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
2. Mash and season: Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth, then stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix well until the filling is creamy and well combined.
3. Let it cool: Set the filling aside to cool completely before assembling the turnovers. This prevents the dough from becoming too soft when filling.

Step 2: Make the Flaky Pastry Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Incorporate the butter: Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the water: Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Do not overwork it.
4. Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps develop the flakiest texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Turnovers

1. Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Cut into circles: Use a round cutter (or a small bowl) to cut the dough into 4–5-inch circles.
3. Fill the turnovers: Place about 1–2 tablespoons of the cooled sweet potato filling in the center of each circle.
4. Seal the edges: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal.
5. Brush with egg wash: For a golden, glossy finish, lightly brush the turnovers with an egg wash made of one egg yolk and a tablespoon of milk.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the turnovers: Place the turnovers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
3. Bake until golden: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the turnovers are golden brown and flaky.
4. Cool before serving: Let the turnovers rest for a few minutes before digging in. The filling will be hot!

Tips for Achieving the Flakiest Pastry Dough

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crisp and buttery crust. The key to mastering these old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch is in the pastry dough. Here are my best tips:

• Keep your ingredients cold: Cold butter and ice water are key to flaky pastry. If the butter starts melting, pop the dough in the fridge for a few minutes before rolling it out.
• Don’t overwork the dough: The less you handle the dough, the lighter and flakier it will be. Overworking creates a tough crust.
• Chill before baking: After assembling the turnovers, chill them in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
• Use a sharp cutter: When cutting the dough circles, use a sharp knife or cutter to avoid compressing the layers.

Creative Filling Variations to Try

One of the best things about making old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch is that you can get creative with the filling. While the traditional version is my favorite, here are some delicious variations you can try:

1. Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Turnovers

Add finely chopped pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup to the sweet potato filling for a nutty, caramelized flavor.

2. Spiced Apple and Sweet Potato Blend

Mix in diced cooked apples with the sweet potatoes for a fruity, autumn-inspired twist.

3. Marshmallow-Stuffed Sweet Potato Turnovers

Place a mini marshmallow inside each turnover before sealing for a gooey, nostalgic treat.

4. Coconut Cream Sweet Potato Filling

Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical take.

5. Chocolate Drizzled Sweet Potato Turnovers

After baking, drizzle the turnovers with melted dark chocolate for a rich and indulgent finish.

Best Ways to Serve and Enjoy Sweet Potato Turnovers

Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save a few for later, these old fashioned sweet potato turnovers are best enjoyed with the right pairings:

• Drizzle with honey: A light drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the filling.
• Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes these turnovers feel extra special.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The contrast of warm turnovers with cold ice cream is irresistible.
• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives them a bakery-style finish.

No matter how you serve them, these old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch will be a hit with everyone!

How to Store and Reheat Turnovers for Maximum Freshness

I love making a big batch of old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch, but I always want them to stay fresh for as long as possible. If you’re like me and want to enjoy them beyond the day you bake them, proper storage makes all the difference. Whether you plan to keep them for a few days or freeze them for later, I’ve got the best tips to help you maintain that delicious homemade taste.

Storing at Room Temperature

• Short-term storage: If you plan to eat the turnovers within 1–2 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Keep them fresh: Line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture and prevent the crust from getting soggy.

Refrigerating for Later

• Best for up to 5 days: Place your turnovers in a sealed container and store them in the fridge. This keeps the sweet potato filling fresh while preserving the flaky texture.
• Reheat before serving: Since refrigerated turnovers can firm up, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Freeze for up to 3 months: Arrange turnovers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheat from frozen: No need to thaw! Simply bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Making These Turnovers for Special Occasions and Holidays

Nothing says “homemade comfort” quite like baking old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch for a holiday gathering or special event. These hand pies are perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even cozy autumn weekends.

Why These Turnovers Are Perfect for Holidays

• Festive and nostalgic: The warm spices and flaky pastry remind everyone of traditional holiday flavors.
• Easy to prepare ahead: Make the dough and filling a day in advance to save time on the day of baking.
• Customizable for guests: Add different fillings, glazes, or toppings to create a variety of flavors.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Adaptations

If you love baking but have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! You can still enjoy old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch with these easy ingredient swaps.

Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free flour: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
• Add xanthan gum: If your gluten-free flour mix doesn’t include xanthan gum, add ½ teaspoon for better texture.

Dairy-Free Version

• Swap butter for vegan alternatives: Use coconut oil or plant-based butter instead of regular butter.
• Use dairy-free milk: Replace heavy cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a creamy yet dairy-free filling.

The History and Cultural Significance of Sweet Potato Turnovers

Sweet potatoes have been a beloved ingredient for centuries, especially in Southern and African American cuisine. The idea of making old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch has roots in both European pastry traditions and Southern comfort food.

Historically, sweet potatoes were a staple in Southern kitchens because they were easy to grow and provided a natural sweetness that required little added sugar. Over time, they became a key ingredient in pies, pastries, and turnovers, leading to the classic sweet potato hand pies we enjoy today.

How to Make a Healthier Version of Sweet Potato Turnovers

While traditional old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch are rich and indulgent, you can make a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Here’s how:

• Use whole wheat flour: Swap out half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber.
• Reduce the sugar: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes means you can cut down on the added sugar.
• Air-fry instead of baking: Air-frying gives you a crispy crust with less oil.

Bonus Recipe: Cinnamon Maple Glaze for Extra Flavor

If you want to elevate your turnovers, this simple cinnamon maple glaze is the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
2. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
3. Drizzle over cooled turnovers and let set before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these turnovers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to reheat sweet potato turnovers?

Reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes for the best texture.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of homemade dough?

Yes! While homemade dough provides the best texture, a high-quality store-bought pie crust works well in a pinch.

How do I keep turnovers from leaking while baking?

Make sure to crimp the edges firmly with a fork and chill the turnovers before baking.

Conclusion

Now you have everything you need to make old fashioned sweet potato turnovers from scratch! These golden, flaky hand pies are packed with rich sweet potato flavor and warm spices, making them a perfect treat for any season.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you love baking, these turnovers are sure to impress. Try different variations, experiment with glazes, and most importantly—enjoy the process of making these homemade delights.

If you loved this recipe, check out our Sweet Potato Waffle Fries or our Murasaki Sweet Potatoes for more delicious inspiration using Sweet Potatoes!