Enpanadas(A Mexican Baked Pastry)
Delicious Mexican baked pastries with warm spices like cinnamon and anise, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, offering a flaky texture and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, shortening, baking powder, cinnamon, and anise thoroughly; add warm water gradually until a firm dough is formed.
- Make biscuit-sized patties from the dough and roll out each one.
- Fill with desired filling, fold in half, and press the edges with fingers or a fork to seal.
- Place on a cookie sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you want a hint of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough. Experiment with fillings like seasoned ground meat, cheese, or even sweet options like fruit preserves. Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your patties to ensure they're cooked through without burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve empanadas warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. Pair them with a side of Good Guacamole or Best Salsa Worldwide for dipping. They also make a great main dish alongside a fresh salad or Mexican rice. For a festive touch, serve with a refreshing Margarita to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator 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 again. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 2 months; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Enpanadas(A Mexican Baked Pastry) contains roughly 100 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to use it. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
What kind of fillings can I use for empanadas?
You can use a variety of fillings such as seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. For a sweet twist, try using fruit fillings like apple or cherry. Just be sure to adjust the spices and seasonings based on the filling choice.
Can I bake empanadas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking empanadas is a healthier alternative and allows for easy preparation. Just ensure to brush the tops with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake them at 350°F until golden brown, as per the instructions for a delicious result.
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).