Have you ever tried Pumpkin Empanadas? These little pockets of joy are not only delicious but also perfect for fall gatherings. With a sweet pumpkin filling wrapped in a flaky pastry, they bring a taste of autumn to your table. Whether you serve them as a snack or a dessert, they are sure to impress your guests.
These Pumpkin Empanadas are a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling creates a comforting flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, making them from scratch is easier than you might think!
The Allure of Pumpkin Empanadas
As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there’s something particularly comforting about enjoying Pumpkin Empanadas. These delightful pastries encapsulate the essence of fall with every bite.
Filled with a creamy pumpkin mixture and wrapped in a flaky golden crust, Pumpkin Empanadas offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg in the filling elevates these treats, making them irresistible for any gathering.
A Look at the Ingredients
The magic behind Pumpkin Empanadas lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. At the core is a dough made from all-purpose flour, salt, and cold butter, ensuring that each bite is light and flaky.
The filling is a delightful blend of pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and spices. This mixture not only adds sweetness but also provides that quintessential autumn flavor. With just a few pantry staples, creating these empanadas from scratch is a breeze.
Preparing the Dough
To achieve the perfect texture, start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. The next step is to incorporate cold butter, cutting it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to achieving that flaky pastry that everyone loves.
After gradually adding cold water to bring the dough together, it’s essential to wrap it in plastic and chill it. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
Creating the Filling
While the dough chills, it’s the perfect time to prepare the pumpkin filling. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree with brown sugar and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Mixing it until smooth creates a delectable filling that will delight your taste buds.
This filling is not just for flavor; it also contributes to the overall texture of the empanadas, ensuring each bite is creamy and satisfying.
Assembling the Empanadas
Once the dough is rolled out to the desired thickness, cut it into circles. The next step involves placing a spoonful of the pumpkin filling onto each circle. Carefully fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal in the deliciousness.
After assembling the empanadas, brushing them with a beaten egg gives them a beautiful golden finish when baked. Baking these pastries until they are golden brown fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma, making it hard to resist them.
Serving and Enjoying
After a brief cooling period, there’s nothing quite like serving warm Pumpkin Empanadas dusted with powdered sugar. The sweetness of the sugar adds an elegant touch, enhancing the overall experience.
These empanadas are not just a dessert; they can also serve as a delightful snack or a charming addition to any fall gathering. With their inviting presentation and irresistible flavor, Pumpkin Empanadas are sure to be a hit!
The Ultimate Pumpkin Empanadas Recipe
These Pumpkin Empanadas are sweet, spiced, and utterly satisfying. With a golden crust that is flaky and tender, they perfectly complement the creamy pumpkin filling that’s infused with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix well until smooth.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of pumpkin filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy your Pumpkin Empanadas warm!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 empanadas
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
