SWEET PUMPKIN EMPANADAS
Sweet Pumpkin Empanadas
Looking for a delightful treat to embrace the flavors of fall? Try these Sweet Pumpkin Empanadas! These flaky pastries are filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture, perfect for a cozy dessert or a festive snack. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup cold water
For the filling:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
- Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
- Place a tablespoon of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake:
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping, and sprinkle it over the empanadas.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
These Sweet Pumpkin Empanadas are sure to be a hit with their warm, spiced filling and buttery crust. Perfect for any autumn gathering or just a cozy night in!
Feel free to share this recipe with your members and enjoy the sweet flavors of pumpkin in a delightful empanada form!