As the crisp air of autumn rolls in, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of the season. Enter these delightful Pumpkin Empanadas, where a flaky, buttery crust wraps around a cozy, spiced pumpkin filling that’s nothing short of magical. Not only are they incredibly easy to bake, but they also make for a crowd-pleasing handheld dessert that will delight friends and family alike. These little pockets of joy are perfect for fall gatherings or a leisurely weekend brunch, offering a warm bite that captures the essence of this beloved season. Curious about how to make this delicious handheld treat? Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why are Pumpkin Empanadas so delightful?
Versatile and delicious, these Pumpkin Empanadas can be enjoyed anytime, whether as a festive fall dessert or a cozy snack. Easy to make, even novice bakers can impress friends with a beautiful flaky crust filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture. Crowd-pleaser alert! They’re sure to vanish at gatherings. Plus, you can customize them with different fillings, making each batch uniquely yours. Looking for even more delicious fall recipes? Check out our seasonal favorites for inspiration!
Pumpkin Empanadas Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for delicious Pumpkin Empanadas!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and creates the dough; substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and topping; brown sugar enhances flavor beautifully.
- Baking Powder – Helps the dough rise for a tender texture; no substitutions are recommended.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can offer a different profile.
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a flaky texture; use high-quality cold butter or substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Ice Cold Water – Binds the dough; keep it very cold for the best texture.
For the Filling
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides the main flavor; canned pumpkin is convenient but feel free to use homemade after roasting.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling and adds depth; maple syrup can be a tasty alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth to the filling; nutmeg or allspice can be used for a varied taste.
- Ground Cloves – Contributes to the spiced flavor; consider omitting for a milder note.
- Egg – Used for the egg wash; can be replaced with plant-based milk and maple syrup for a vegan option.
Get ready to experience the delightful warmth of these Pumpkin Empanadas that embody the best of the fall season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Empanadas
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub in cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to enhance its flakiness.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the filling for your pumpkin empanadas. In a medium pot, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jammy consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool while your dough continues to chill.
Step 3: Roll and Cut Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your dough has chilled, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ⅛-inch thick. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles in the dough. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you continue with the remaining dough. Working quickly ensures the dough stays cold and pliable.
Step 4: Fill and Seal
Take one round of dough and place a tablespoon of the cooled pumpkin filling in the center. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges tightly with your fingers or a fork to seal it securely. Repeat this process for the remaining dough circles. Brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash for a golden finish and sprinkle with a bit of sugar for added sweetness.
Step 5: Bake the Empanadas
Arrange the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they have a bit of space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to achieve your desired color. Once baked, let them cool briefly on a wire rack before serving.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Empanadas
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Pumpkin Empanadas freshly baked for the best taste. If left out, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked Pumpkin Empanadas on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What to Serve with Flaky Pumpkin Empanadas?
Heat up your fall gatherings with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the comforting flavors of these sweet pastries.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm, aromatic spices in chai enhance the cozy flavors of pumpkin while providing a soothing drink option.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with citrus vinaigrette lightens up the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich empanadas.
- Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This velvety soup adds a touch of fall essence, pairing beautifully with the spiced filling of the empanadas for a warming experience.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These tender bites add a delightful crunch and slight bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin filling.
- Maple-Glazed Carrots: The earthy sweetness complements pumpkin perfectly, while the slight crunch offers a delicious texture contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside warm empanadas, a scoop of creamy ice cream becomes a divine dessert experience.
- Mulled Wine: This spiced beverage warms the soul and adds festive flair, resonating with the cozy feelings of autumn.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Capture the spirit of fall with this popular beverage that resonates harmoniously with pumpkin empanadas.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a fun twist, dunk empanadas into a rich chocolate sauce; it’s a sweet surprise that can’t be missed!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Empanadas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps of the recipe, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. The filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, fill with your spiced pumpkin mixture, and proceed with sealing and baking. This way, you’ll have warm, flaky empanadas ready to serve in no time, keeping your kitchen filled with delightful aromas!
Pumpkin Empanadas Variations & Substitutions
Let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful Pumpkin Empanadas in ways that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep this treat suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. The texture will remain fantastic!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a flaky, dairy-free crust that everyone can enjoy. It adds a subtle, tropical twist too!
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Sweet potato Swap: Replace pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a slightly sweeter filling with a hint of earthiness. It’s an unexpected yet delicious twist.
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Maple Sweetened: Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup in the filling for an authentic, rich flavor that embodies autumn. It’s like a cozy hug in a bite.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of cardamom to the filling for an extra zing of warmth. These spices complement the pumpkin beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Savory Version: Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese along with the pumpkin for a savory spin that balances the sweetness perfectly. This unexpected twist will surprise your dinner guests.
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Chocolate Surprise: For a decadent dessert, incorporate chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling, creating a delightful contrast to the spices. These will tantalize both children and adults alike!
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Vegan-friendly: Replace the egg wash with a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup for a golden finish without using animal products. It’s an easy fix that keeps everyone included!
Feel free to experiment and make these delightful spaces your own! If you're searching for more cozy fall-inspired flavor combinations, check out our seasonal favorites for even more delicious possibilities.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Empanadas
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Keep it Cold: Ensure your butter is very cold to achieve the perfect flaky texture. Room temperature butter will create a dense dough.
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Don’t Overwork Dough: Mix the dough just until combined. Overworking it can lead to tough empanadas instead of the tender, flaky crust you desire.
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Cool Filling Completely: Let your pumpkin filling cool before assembling. A hot filling can make the dough soggy and difficult to seal properly.
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Egg Wash Options: If you prefer a vegan version, use plant-based milk mixed with a touch of maple syrup for a beautiful golden finish on your Pumpkin Empanadas.
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Freezing for Later: Assemble the empanadas but skip baking them if you want to freeze. Place them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a bag.
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Serve Warm: These pumpkin empanadas are best enjoyed warm, paired with a cozy beverage or a fresh salad for a delightful contrast.
Pumpkin Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of pumpkin to use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using canned pumpkin puree for convenience, as it’s already cooked and blended to perfection. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can use fresh pumpkin by roasting it in the oven until fork-tender, then pureeing it until smooth for a more homemade taste.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Empanadas?
To keep your Pumpkin Empanadas fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the flaky texture, it's best to avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Empanadas?
Very! To freeze your empanadas, assemble them without baking first. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why is my empanada dough tough?
That's a common hiccup! If your dough turns out tough, it might be due to overworking it or using room temperature butter instead of cold. Remember to mix the dough just until combined and manage the temperature of your ingredients; this will keep your empanadas light and flaky!
Can I make these Pumpkin Empanadas vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the unsalted butter with cold coconut oil and use a mixture of plant-based milk and maple syrup for the egg wash. This way, you can enjoy these cozy treats without dairy while still getting that beautiful golden finish.
Are there any allergies I should consider?
Definitely! These Pumpkin Empanadas contain gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy (if using butter). If you or your guests have allergies, opt for a gluten-free flour blend and substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free and gluten-free delight. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
Best Pumpkin Empanadas with Cozy Spiced Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Rub in cold butter until it resembles coarse cornmeal.
- Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt in a medium pot. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let it cool while dough chills.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll dough to about ⅛-inch thick and cut out 4-inch circles.
- Place circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place a tablespoon of cooled filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold over to create a half-moon and crimp edges to seal. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool briefly on a wire rack.
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