Why You’ll Love this Sweet Empanadas Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines creamy richness with fruity sweetness, you’ll absolutely love this sweet empanadas recipe. The buttery dough, infused with cream cheese, creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist.
I can’t help but smile when I think about biting into one of these little pockets of joy, filled with my favorite fruit jam. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive dessert at a gathering.
Plus, the aroma wafting from the oven while they bake is simply irresistible. Once you roll them in cinnamon sugar, you’ll experience a sweet crunch that complements the soft filling perfectly.
Trust me, these empanadas will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients of Sweet Empanadas
When it comes to whipping up a batch of sweet empanadas, having the right ingredients is key. This recipe is so simple but oh-so-delicious. Envision this: a buttery, cream cheese dough surrounding your favorite fruit jam, baked to golden perfection and rolled in cinnamon sugar. It’s the kind of treat that makes your heart sing and your taste buds dance.
Let’s explore what you’ll need to get started on this delightful journey.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 ounces butter, softened
- 3 ounces cream cheese
- 5 ounces plain flour
- 11 ounces fruit jam (your choice of flavor)
- 3 ounces superfine sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Now, as for considerations about the ingredients, don’t worry if you don’t have superfine sugar on hand. You can simply blitz regular granulated sugar in a blender or food processor for a few seconds. It’s a little life hack that saves you a trip to the store.
And when it comes to fruit jam, the sky’s the limit! Whether you’re a fan of classic strawberry, vibrant raspberry, or even zesty apricot, pick your favorite. Just remember, the more flavorful the jam, the more scrumptious your empanadas will be.
How to Make Sweet Empanadas
Alright, let’s explore making these sweet empanadas. First things first, you’ll want to cream together 4 ounces of softened butter and 3 ounces of cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Now, I know what you might be thinking—cream cheese in a pastry? But trust me, it adds this luscious richness that makes the dough melt in your mouth. Mix them until they’re smooth and blended.
Then, you’ll add 5 ounces of plain flour and beat it well. The dough might feel a bit sticky at first, but don’t worry, it’s supposed to be like that. Once everything is combined, shape it into a smooth ball, wrap it in cling film, and let it chill in the fridge for about 8 hours. Yes, I know, it feels like forever, but good things come to those who wait, right?
Now, when you’re ready to roll—literally—take the dough out of the fridge about 20 minutes before you plan to use it. This is so it’s easier to handle. Preheat your oven to 190°C (that’s 375°F for those of you not on the Celsius train yet). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out that chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thick.
This is where the magic happens: grab a 3-inch biscuit cutter and cut out circles from the dough. It’s kind of like making mini pizzas, but with a much sweeter outcome. Place a small spoonful of your chosen fruit jam—11 ounces of it—right in the center of each circle. You can go wild here; let your inner child pick the flavor. Just make sure not to overfill, or you’ll end up with a jam explosion in the oven, and nobody wants that.
Now, moisten the edges of the dough with a little water, fold it over to form a half-circle, and press the edges together firmly. This is a vital step—think of it as sealing in all that fruity goodness. Place your empanadas on un-greased baking sheets and bake them for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown.
While they’re baking, mix together 3 ounces of superfine sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, creating the perfect dusting for your little pastries. Once they’re done baking, roll them in that cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm. The transformation is magical, and you’ll be left with these delightful, sweet treats that are sure to impress.
Just remember to let them cool a bit before devouring—unless you enjoy the risk of burning your tongue on deliciousness.
Sweet Empanadas Substitutions & Variations
While the classic sweet empanadas are delicious as is, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your baking game.
For a twist, try using different fruit jams, like raspberry or peach, for unique flavors. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative or even silken tofu blended until smooth.
You can also switch up the spices; adding nutmeg or vanilla can enhance the sweetness. For a crunch, consider mixing chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the filling.
If you want a more colorful presentation, brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a golden finish.
These little changes can make your sweet empanadas truly special!
What to Serve with Sweet Empanadas
After exploring the delightful variations of sweet empanadas, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside them.
I love pairing these tasty treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. Fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, adds a rejuvenating contrast and enhances the sweetness.
For a little kick, try drizzling a light chocolate sauce or caramel over the empanadas. If you’re in the mood for a beverage, a warm cup of spiced chai or a chilled glass of horchata complements the flavors beautifully.
Each of these options elevates the experience, making your sweet empanadas even more delightful for you and your guests!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your sweet empanadas turn out perfectly, I recommend paying close attention to the dough consistency. It should be smooth but not sticky; if it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour.
When rolling out the dough, make sure it’s evenly thick for consistent baking. I also suggest chilling the empanadas after assembling them; this helps maintain their shape while baking.
For a fun twist, feel free to experiment with different jams or even chocolate filling! Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar at the end; it adds that extra sweetness and flavor.
Finally, keep an eye on them in the oven—every oven is different, and you want them golden brown, not burnt. Enjoy your baking!