These delightful Apple Empanadas are a perfect combination of flaky pastry and sweet apple filling, making them an ideal treat for dessert or as a snack. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these empanadas are sure to please everyone!
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 420 g (3 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour (00 flour)
- 50 g sugar
- 8 g vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 2 large eggs
- 50 ml sunflower seed oil
- 10 g (2 teaspoons) baking powder
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for the filling)
- 1 tablespoon jam (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking apples)
Directions:
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 420 g flour, 50 g sugar, 8 g vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 50 ml sunflower oil. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Add 10 g baking powder and knead gently until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the apple filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the diced apples and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of jam. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough (about 10 cm in diameter).
- Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake the empanadas:
- Place the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips:
- For added flavor, sprinkle cinnamon over the apple filling before sealing the empanadas.
- You can also brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a golden finish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins, supporting digestive health.
- Eggs contribute protein and important nutrients.
- Sunflower oil is rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, promoting heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per empanada):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage:
- Store empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These empanadas are easy to make and require simple ingredients.
- The combination of flaky pastry and sweet apple filling creates a delightful treat.
- They are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Conclusion:
These Apple Empanadas are a delicious and comforting treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. With their sweet apple filling wrapped in flaky pastry, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later – they won’t last long!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different fruits for the filling? Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or mixed berries for a different flavor.
- Are these empanadas suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked empanadas. Just thaw before baking.
- How can I tell when they are done baking? They should be golden brown on the outside. A toothpick should come out clean when poked through.
- Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste, but it may affect the sweetness of the apples.
- Can I add nuts to the filling? Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch.
- What kind of jam works best for this recipe? Apricot or raspberry jam pairs nicely with apples.
- Can I make these empanadas vegan? Yes, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based oil.
- How do I store leftover empanadas? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
- Can I make them ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance. Assemble before baking.
- What can I serve with these empanadas? They pair beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a scoop of yogurt.