Pumpkin Empanadas

Pumpkin Empanadas (Empanadas de Calabaza) are a delicious treat that brings the warmth of autumn right to your kitchen. Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry filled with smooth, spiced pumpkin. It’s like a cozy hug in every bite! This recipe combines the traditional elements of empanadas with the heartwarming flavors of pumpkin, making it perfect for family gatherings or any festive occasion. As someone who loves cooking and sharing meals, I can’t wait for you to try these pumpkin empanadas. They fit seamlessly into any fall celebration, whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a casual get-together with friends. Let’s roll up our sleeves and create this seasonal delight together!

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Why This Recipe Works

Combining the buttery, flaky texture of the empanada dough with a spiced pumpkin filling creates an irresistible dessert. The magic starts with cold butter, which ensures the crust remains crisp and tender after baking. The addition of vinegar enhances the dough’s flakiness, making each bite a delightful experience. This pumpkin empanadas (empanadas de calabaza) recipe lets you experience that perfect crunch paired with a warm, rich filling that celebrates the best of fall flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Empanadas (Empanadas de Calabaza) Recipe

You’ll find this recipe is not only simple to follow but also provides a comforting taste of autumn in every single bite. The sweet, spiced pumpkin filling satisfies dessert cravings while still keeping a unique cultural flair. Plus, these empanadas are perfect for gatherings; they can easily be a conversation starter and a hit at any event. So, whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll love whipping up these delightful treats.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 10 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 large egg (for dough)
• 1/2 cup ice water
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
• 1 (15 ounce) can pure pumpkin puree
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for filling)
• 1 egg (for coating)
• 2 teaspoons water
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

These ingredients create the perfect balance of flavors and textures between the crust and filling, making your pumpkin empanadas truly unforgettable.

Create the Empanada Dough

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This foundation will impart subtle flavors throughout the dough, setting the stage for a delicious empanada.

Cut in the Butter

Now, add the cold, cubed unsalted butter into your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or forks, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse sand. This process ensures a flaky texture that you’ll love.

Add Egg and Liquids

Next, stir in one large egg, ice water, and the vinegar into the mixture. Knead the dough for about two minutes until it’s smooth but still tacky. This step melds the flavors and ensures a good consistency.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to enhance its texture and flavor. Chilling the dough helps it relax, which is crucial for achieving the best results.

Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well blended. This rich filling will be the star of your pumpkin empanadas, giving them that signature taste everyone craves.

Assemble the Empanadas

Roll Out the Dough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough and cut into 3 to 4-inch circles using a pastry cutter.

Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Place a generous spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Then, fold the dough over and press the edges tightly together. To seal the edges, use a fork; this way, no filling escapes during baking.

Prepare the Coating

Mix Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and two teaspoons of water. Brush the top of each empanada generously with this egg mixture. This step gives your pastries a beautiful golden color.

Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar

Combine the sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the egg-coated empanadas for a sweet finish that enhances their appeal.

Bake the Empanadas

Bake to Perfection

Place the prepared empanadas in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time, so get ready for the delicious anticipation!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these empanadas warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with a hot spiced cider, making each bite a burst of seasonal joy.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your butter is very cold; this is key for a flaky crust.
• Don’t overfill the empanadas to prevent them from bursting while baking.
• Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving; this helps set the filling.

Variations

Feel free to experiment! You can substitute the pumpkin puree with sweet potato or butternut squash puree for a unique twist. Or add chocolate chips to the filling for a richer flavor profile that’s sure to please any sweet lover.

Storage Tips

Allow any leftover empanadas to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin, but make sure it’s well-drained. That way, you avoid a watery filling that could ruin your empanadas.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

3. How can I tell when the empanadas are done?
They should be lightly golden brown on top. If you tap them, they should sound hollow, letting you know they’re ready.

4. Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Certainly! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that it works well for dough to maintain the right texture.

5. Are pumpkin empanadas suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well before or after baking. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Indulging in pumpkin empanadas is a delightful way to celebrate the season. This recipe marries tradition with comfort, allowing you to share the warmth of home baking with friends and family. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a frozen treat, these empanadas are sure to bring joy to every table. Embrace the flavors of fall and add this simple yet delectable pumpkin empanadas (empanadas de calabaza) recipe to your cooking repertoire!

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