Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of these apricot-filled empanaditas. The flaky pastry filled with warm apricot preserves creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized pastries make for an excellent dessert or snack option. The recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade empanaditas!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the apricot preserves, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Remove one dough disc from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the rolled-out dough. Re-roll the scraps as needed.
- Place a teaspoon of the apricot filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges together gently to seal the empanaditas.
- Place the filled empanaditas on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat the rolling, cutting, filling, and sealing process with the remaining dough disc and apricot filling.
- Brush the empanaditas with beaten egg wash, and if desired, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for a touch of sweetness.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the empanaditas are golden brown.
- Allow the empanaditas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Empanaditas are a variation of empanadas, which are popular in Latin American and Spanish cuisines.
Apricot preserves can be substituted with other fruit preserves, such as strawberry or raspberry, for a different flavor.
These empanaditas can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile dessert option.
Leftover empanaditas can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed for a couple of days.
This recipe yields approximately 24 empanaditas, but the quantities can be adjusted based on your needs.