Baked Empanada
Golden baked empanadas with flaky crust and savory filling, perfect as a snack or appetizer, appealing to both casual and special occasion gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in margarine using a pastry blender or dough cutter.
- Add water and one egg. Blend until smooth.
- Form into a ball and knead for a few minutes.
- Roll out on a floured board until desired thickness.
- Cut into rounds or squares and place a spoonful of filling in the middle.
- Fold pastry and seal with the tines of a fork.
- Prick the top twice with a fork.
- Brush the tops with the egg yolk and milk mixture.
- Place on a greased pan with oil and dusted with flour.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes at 325°F or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your margarine is cold before cutting it into the flour. You can substitute half the margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're out of eggs, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can work as a binder. Consider adding herbs or spices to the filling for extra flavor. Don't forget to experiment with different fillings like vegetables or cheeses for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these empanadas warm as an appetizer or snack, perhaps alongside a fresh Crunchy Oriental Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with Dot'S Dip for added flavor. Consider serving them with a side of salsa or guacamole for a delightful twist. These empanadas make great party food, perfect for sharing.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the baked empanadas to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crust's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Empanada contains roughly 352 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze baked empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze baked empanadas. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What types of filling can I use?
You can get creative with fillings! Traditional options include seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables. For a vegetarian option, try a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese. Sweet fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate can also be delicious. The possibilities are endless!
How do I make the dough more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your dough, consider adding a pinch of salt to the flour mixture. You can also incorporate herbs like oregano or thyme directly into the dough for a savory touch. For a sweeter dough, increase the sugar slightly or add vanilla extract for a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).