Description
These baked apple empanadas feature a flaky, tender pastry crust filled with a warm, spiced apple filling. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, these empanadas are a delightful dessert or snack that combines comforting autumn flavors with a golden-baked finish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For the Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
For Assembly
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Then, cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water and apple cider vinegar until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the apples are softened. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness and cut into 4-5 inch circles. Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form half-moons and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake: Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust. Optionally sprinkle with granulated sugar for added sweetness and texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Ensure the butter is very cold to create a flaky pastry texture.
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight for convenience.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and the egg wash with a plant-based milk or melted coconut oil for brushing.
- If desired, sprinkle cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar on top before baking for extra flavor.
