Delicious Apple Cinnamon Empanadas Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the beloved apple pie from American cuisine and the delicious empanadas from Brazilian cuisine. Let me introduce you to our baked apple cinnamon empanadas recipe!
Picture this: a flaky, buttery crust filled with sweet and tangy cinnamon apples, all baked to perfection. These empanadas are perfect for sharing with friends and family, as an afternoon treat or even as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be easily customized according to your preferences. You can adjust the amount of sugar and cinnamon to make it sweeter or add some lemon zest for an extra citrus touch. Additionally, we’re using green Granny Smith apples to achieve a perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will leave you with a delicious result. So join me in making these homemade apple cinnamon empanadas and let’s enjoy a little taste of Brazil and America together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a tasty and easy-to-make dessert that will impress your guests? Look no further than these delicious apple cinnamon empanadas!
This recipe combines the sweet and savory taste of green apples with a warm and comforting cinnamon flavor. The filling is perfectly balanced with brown sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch, creating an irresistible blend that will tempt even the pickiest of eaters.
But what really sets these empanadas apart is their versatility. You can choose to bake or fry them, depending on your preference. You could even make them smaller and serve as bite-sized dessert treats at your next gathering. Plus, with the option to substitute granny smith apples for any other variety such as Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste buds.
Not only are these empanadas delectable, but they’re also easy to make. The dough is made with flour, cream cheese, and butter, resulting in a flaky crust that pairs perfectly with the apple-cinnamon filling.
These apple cinnamon empanadas are perfect to satisfy your dessert cravings or provide the perfect finish to a great meal. Serve them with some homemade caramel sauce or vanilla ice-cream to make it extra special. Trust me; you won’t be able to keep your hands off them!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the ingredient list for our delectable Apple, Cinnamon Empanadas Recipe. These empanadas are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that make them an irresistible treat for everyone. Here is what you need to make a batch of these scrumptious empanadas:
Dough Ingredients
- Flour: 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Cream cheese: 8 oz softened cream cheese
- Butter: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) at room temperature
- Vanilla: 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Salt: 1/4 tsp salt
- Water: 4-5 tbsp cold water
Filling Ingredients
- Green Apples: 2 large Granny Smith apples
- Sugar: 1/4 cup sugar
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Cinnamon: 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Cornstarch: 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter
You can easily find these items in your pantry or grocery stores. Let’s get started!
The Recipe How-To
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
- 4 oz. of cream cheese, cold and cut into pieces
Ingredients for the Apple Filling
- 4 medium-sized Granny Smith green apples, peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions for the Empanada Dough
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In a large mixing bowl, add flour and salt then whisk together until well combined.
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Add unsalted butter and cubed cream cheese to the bowl.
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Cut in the butter and cream cheese until the mixture is crumbly with pea-sized bits.
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Gradually add ice-cold water while tossing with a fork just until the dough comes together cleanly.
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Form the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap and rest them in the fridge for at least an hour.
Instructions for the Apple Filling
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In a saucepan over medium heat, add unsalted butter.
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Add diced apples to the pot and stir occasionally until they start to soften and turn golden brown on their edges.
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Add both types of sugar, along with a pinch of salt, cinnamon, and cornstarch to coat well.
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Continue cooking over medium-high heat until sugar starts to dissolve and turns syrupy around apples for about 4-5 minutes.
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Stir in the lemon juice and allow the mixture to cook for about a minute.
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Remove filling from heat, let it cool slightly, and set it aside.
Instructions for the Empanadas
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Preheat your oven to 375°F.
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Roll out each disk of empanada dough to 1/8 inch thickness and cut out six-inch diameter rounds.
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Place a tablespoon of apple filling onto each round, leaving a small outer edge without filling.
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Moisten the edges with water and fold in half to seal, pressing down with a fork along the edges to seal further.
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Brush empanadas with an egg wash or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for more flavor.
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Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake until golden brown for about 20-25 minutes.
Enjoy these freshly baked Apple Cinnamon Empanadas as they burst with decadent apple pie-like filling enclosed in their perfectly flakey crust
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch it up or customize this empanada recipe? You’ve come to the right place! Below are some substitutions and variations you can make to create a new twist on these classic apple and cinnamon empanadas.
– Filling options: Not a fan of apples or cinnamon? No problem! Feel free to swap out the filling for your favorite fruit or pie filling. Try pumpkin, caramel apple or any other fruit of your choice. You can also add some nuts or chocolate chips. Experiment with different fillings to find something that suits your taste buds.
– Dough options: If you don’t have pie crust or pre-made empanada dough, you can make your own using flour, cream cheese, and butter. Mix these ingredients together in equal parts until you form a dough. You could also use puff pastry instead of traditional empanada dough for a lighter pastry.
– Cooking method: Traditionally, empanadas are either baked or fried. For a healthier option, try baking them in an air fryer instead of frying. Empanadas will still come out crispy and delicious no matter which method you choose.
– Sweet empanadas: Empanadas are typically associated with savory flavors, but they can also be sweet! Follow the same recipe but add a bit more sugar to the dough and filling. Additionally, consider topping them off with powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar.
These are just some substitutions and variations to start with – feel free to get creative and make these apple cinnamon empanadas uniquely yours!
Serving and Pairing
I love these apple cinnamon empanadas fresh out of the oven, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top! It’s a classic combination that works wonderfully with the warm baked apples and cinnamon.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt. You could also drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent touch.
For a fun twist, serve these empanadas as a dessert pairing for your next wine night. A light white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the sweetness of the apples and cinnamon. If you prefer red wine, try a Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc.
Finally, if you want to keep it simple, these empanadas are delightful on their own as an afternoon snack or after-dinner treat. Whatever way you choose to serve these apple cinnamon empanadas, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about apple cinnamon empanadas is that they can be made ahead of time and stored for later consumption. These tasty treats also reheat quite well, so you can enjoy them fresh and warm whenever you like. Whether you’re looking to save time before a gathering or just want to make your life a little easier, this recipe is perfect for anyone on the go.
To make ahead, prepare the apple cinnamon empanadas as directed and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the empanadas in the fridge overnight before reheating them in the oven or air fryer until heated through.
Storing leftover empanadas is easy too. Simply place any uneaten empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat them in the oven or air fryer until crispy and golden brown.
If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can even microwave your apple cinnamon empanadas. Just be sure to wrap them in a damp paper towel or cover with a microwave-safe lid to prevent them from drying out.
One thing to keep in mind when reheating empanadas is that they may not taste as fresh as when they were first made. However, by following these simple steps, you can ensure that your apple cinnamon empanadas are still delicious even after being stored or reheated.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that we’ve covered the basic steps, here are my tips for making these apple cinnamon empanadas perfectly every time:
1. Don’t overfill the empanadas. It might be tempting to add in more filling, but too much filling can cause the dough to tear and leak out.
2. Use a fork to press down the edges of the dough. This will help seal the empanadas and prevent them from opening up during baking.
3. Brush the tops of the empanadas with egg wash or milk before baking. This will give them a golden-brown color and a nice shine.
4. For best results, use green apples like Granny Smith. They are tart and firm, which makes them perfect for baking.
5. When cooking the apples on the stovetop, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
6. Be patient when making the dough. It’s important to let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This will allow it to become more pliable and easier to work with.
7. If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use a food processor to cut the butter into small pieces and then mix it with the flour mixture.
8. After baking, let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be very hot right out of the oven and need time to cool down so that you can enjoy them without hurting yourself.
By following these tips, you’ll make perfect apple cinnamon empanadas every time!
FAQ
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about our delicious Apple Cinnamon Empanadas!
What are 3 types of empanadas?
When it comes to making empanadas in Tucumán, there are three traditional fillings that locals swear by: beef, tripe, and chicken. These fillings are then wrapped in dough and cooked in beef fat in a clay oven, resulting in a delicious and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Should empanadas be baked or fried?
Preparing empanadas can be done through two cooking methods, each of which results in delectable snacks. For a healthier option, baking them in the oven is recommended, while frying them is perfect when pressed for time.
What kind of dough do you use for empanadas?
It is a common practice to use pre-made pie dough when making empanadas due to the resemblance between the ingredients used for both. The list of most dough recipes usually contains flour, butter, salt, water, and sometimes egg – exactly the same ingredients that this recipe calls for.
Is empanada dough the same as pie crust?
When making empanadas, it’s important to use a dough that is less flaky than a pie crust. However, in a pinch, you can substitute frozen pie crust dough. Empanada dough has a tender texture that allows it to soak up the filling without getting soggy. It’s a versatile dough that can be used for either baked or fried empanadas – perfect for a handheld dish.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these apple cinnamon empanadas are a perfect treat for any occasion. They boast a sweet and crunchy exterior filled with warm, comforting apple cinnamon pie filling. By following the recipe instructions carefully, you can be sure to achieve delicious and perfectly crispy empanadas in every bite.
Whether for dessert or snacking, these empanadas are bound to impress your guests and leave them asking for more. And with the option to bake or fry them, you can customize the recipe to your preferred taste and texture.
So why not give this recipe a try? With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make these mouth-watering apple cinnamon empanadas. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it.
Apple, Cinnamon Empanadas Recipe
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 cup butter, chilled (16 tablespoons, or 2 sticks)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, chilled
- 2 1/3 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Filling
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 -5 firm green apples (like Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 -2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 pinch salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons dulce de leche (optional)
- 1 egg yolk
- sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Make the pastry dough: Add the flour, salt and sugar to the bowl of a food processor and pulse briefly.
- Add the butter, cut into 1 tablespoon pieces and the cream cheese (also cut into pieces) to the bowl and pulse several times, just until mixture starts to come together. Add the vanilla and pulse twice more briefly.
- Turn dough mixture out onto a piece of plastic wrap. Bring dough together into a disk, wrap with plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Make the filling: Peel and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes. Add apples to a saucepan with the butter, sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir apples over medium heat, cooking them until they are just tender. In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon or two of water into the corn starch until smooth. Add cornstarch mixture to the apples and cook, stirring, until mixture starts to thicken.
- Remove apples from heat and stir in the optional dulce de leche until well mixed.
- Chill apple mixture for at least an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Shape empanadas: Roll out dough (in 2 or 3 batches)on floured surface to about 1/4-1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles of dough about 5-6 inches in diameter.
- Wet the edge of a dough circle slightly, all around the perimeter. Place 1 scant tablespoon of filling in the middle of the dough. Fold the circle in half, enclosing the filling, and pinch the edges together firmly to seal, flattening and extending them slightly as you pinch them. Fold and crimp the flattened edge over itself decoratively. (see how to fill and shape empanadas. Repeat with remaining empanadas.
- Chill empanadas for about an hour for best results (or 15 minutes in the freezer). Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix egg yolk with a little bit of water and brush over empanadas. Sprinkle empanadas with sugar.
- Bake empanadas until puffed and golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- These are best eaten warm, and can be reheated in a low oven.
- Note: Prep time includes 2+ hour chilling.
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.