Moist Chocolate Cake

Cherry Turnovers

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved (or 1 can of cherry pie filling)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Pastry:

• 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (and cinnamon if using).
• Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly while you prepare the puff pastry.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Unroll the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 squares (or more, depending on how big you want your turnovers).
• Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each square (about 1-2 tablespoons). Be careful not to overfill.

3. Form the Turnovers:

• Fold each square of puff pastry into a triangle by bringing one corner to the opposite corner.
• Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and extra sealing.
• If you like, you can make a small slit on top of each turnover to allow steam to escape while baking.

4. Egg Wash:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
• Brush the egg wash over the tops of each turnover to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.

5. Bake the Turnovers:

• Place the turnovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

6. Glaze the Turnovers (Optional):

• While the turnovers are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled turnovers for a sweet finishing touch.

7. Serve:

• Let the cherry turnovers cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm but also taste great at room temperature.

Shamrock Shake Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box (15.25 oz/432g) white cake mix

• 3 large egg whites

• 1 cup (237ml) water

• ⅓ cup (79ml) vegetable oil

• ¼-½ teaspoon mint or peppermint extract (adjust based on taste)

• ½ teaspoon green food coloring

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar

• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

• ½ teaspoon mint or peppermint extract

• ½ teaspoon green food coloring

• Optional: Sprinkles or shamrock-shaped decorations for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, egg whites, water, vegetable oil, mint extract, and green food coloring.

2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Fill each cupcake liner about ⅔ full with the batter.

2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Add the heavy cream (or milk), mint extract, and green food coloring. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting onto the cupcakes.

2. Add sprinkles or shamrock-shaped decorations for a festive touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the cupcakes immediately or store them in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.

Tips for the Best Shamrock Shake Cupcakes

1. Adjust Mint Flavor: Start with ¼ teaspoon of mint extract and add more to taste. Peppermint extract is stronger, so use it sparingly.

2. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides a vibrant green color without altering the consistency of the batter or frosting.

3. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.

4. Make Ahead: The cupcakes can be baked a day in advance and frosted before serving.

5. Get Creative: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed Oreos for extra flair.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Shamrock Shake: Pair the cupcakes with a homemade Shamrock Shake for the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day treat.

• For a Party: Arrange the cupcakes on a festive platter for a dessert table centerpiece.