If you’ve ever stepped into a cafe on a chilly morning and spotted a tray of fresh turnovers cooling by the counter, you know exactly how tempting they are. Flaky, golden, and filled with warm fruit or buttery goodness, turnovers have a way of stopping people in their tracks. They’re the kind of pastry that feels timeless—something you grew up with, something you crave, and something you instantly enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. But beyond that irresistible first bite, turnovers have a surprisingly rich history and a charm that explains why they’ve stayed popular for centuries. Join us this month as our cafe shares its story!
A Pastry With Deep Roots
Turnovers didn’t just appear one day as a cafe staple; they evolved over hundreds of years. Their earliest forms showed up across Europe and were created out of practicality. People needed meals that were portable, affordable, and easy to prepare. Because of this, bakers began enclosing fillings inside folded dough and baking them until crisp. It was simple, practical, and delicious.
In France, this idea eventually became the iconic chausson aux pommes, a delicate apple-filled pastry that still inspires modern turnovers. In England, they evolved into hearty hand pies meant for workers who needed lunch they could carry into the fields or mines. Different ingredients, traditions, and baking techniques shaped turnovers in every region, but the core idea stayed the same: a comforting filling tucked inside a flaky shell. That simplicity is a big part of why turnovers spread so widely and stayed so loved.
What Makes Turnovers So Special?
Turnovers strike a perfect balance: crisp, buttery pastry on the outside and warm, flavorful filling on the inside. Every bite brings contrast like flaky layers followed by soft apples, sweet cherries, or rich seasonal fillings. They’re indulgent without being heavy, classic without feeling outdated.
They’re also incredibly versatile. A turnover can be breakfast. It can be dessert. It can be the mid-day treat that makes the whole day better. Cafes can fill them with whatever the season offers: apple-cinnamon in fall, berry blends in summer, or cozy winter flavors when the holidays roll in. No matter the flavor, a turnover always feels homemade and comforting.
Bagel Mill | Peterborough Cafe
Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious turnover or just want your go-to bagel with a great cup of coffee, swing by our cafe and enjoy something freshly baked. We’ll have your favorite treat waiting for you!