How to Make Empanadas Recipe?
Who doesn’t love empanadas? With this recipe from MixMindSet, you’ll learn how to make homemade empanada dough to surprise family and friends on any special occasion.
These wheat flour empanadas can be filled with whatever you like and cooked baked or fried, depending on your preference.
The recipe for empanada dough isn’t complicated, but knowing the correct measurements and kneading properly is essential to achieve the right consistency.
At the end of this step-by-step recipe, you’ll also find recommendations for different fillings—so let’s get started.
Easy and simple recipe for making homemade dough for oven-baked empanadas. This dough can be prepared by hand or in a food processor.
Table of Contents
How to Make Empanadas Recipe?
Dish: Appetizer, Starter, Snack
Cuisine: Latin
Keywords: Empanadas, Baked empanadas, Homemade empanadas, Empanada dough
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yields: 12–15 medium empanadas or 20–25 small empanadas
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wheat flour | 3 cups |
| Salt | ¼ to ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 6 ounces (170 g) |
| Egg | 1 |
| Water or milk | ¼ to ½ cup, as needed |
Preparation
To Make Homemade Empanada Dough for Baking
- Mix the flour and salt in the food processor.
- Add the butter, egg, and water or milk little by little. Pulse until small balls of soft dough form.
- Remove the dough and form it into a smooth ball.
If you don’t have a food processor, follow the same steps using your hands. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the dough is smooth. Add a little extra liquid if the dough feels dry.
- Divide the dough into two large balls and flatten them into discs. They can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for 1–2 days.
- Roll out the dough until thin and cut circles in your desired size using cutters, a plate, or a cup.
- Alternatively, form medium or small balls and roll each one individually.
- A tortilla press can also be used.
Empanada discs can be used right away, refrigerated, or frozen for later use.
Video Guide 📽️
To Assemble and Bake the Empanadas:
- Brush egg white along the edges to seal the empanadas before crimping.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to prevent opening during baking.
- Brush with egg yolk for a glossy finish.
Preheat the oven to 375–400°F (190–205°C) and bake medium empanadas for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Smaller empanadas require less baking time.
More Tricks for Perfect Empanada Dough:
Although this recipe is simple, keeping a few tips in mind can improve results:
- If vegetarians won’t be eating them, lard adds extra flavor and consistency.
- A popular trick for crispier dough is using equal parts wheat and corn flour.
- Argentinian empanadas mostly use wheat flour.
- Colombian empanadas often use corn flour or a mix.
- Stretch the dough in small portions to form even circles.
- Ensure fillings are well drained to avoid oily empanadas.
Dough for Baked Empanadas: Recommendations
This dough works perfectly for baked empanadas, though it can also be fried. For best baking results:
- Place the filling at one side of the dough circle.
- Seal the edges firmly using a fork to prevent leaks.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C with top and bottom heat.
- Bake on a parchment-lined tray for 20–30 minutes, depending on size, watching closely to prevent burning.
Nutritional Value (Per Diner)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 465 kcal |
| Protein | 11.8 g |
| Fats | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 83 g |
| Fiber | 3.3 g |
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze empanada dough?
Yes, the dough and cut discs can be frozen and stored for later use. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Can I use only water instead of milk?
Yes, both work well. Milk adds a slightly richer texture, but water is perfectly fine.
Why did my empanadas open while baking?
This usually happens if the edges weren’t sealed well or if they weren’t chilled before baking.
Can this dough be used for frying?
Yes, although it’s ideal for baking, this dough can also be fried successfully.
Conclusion
Making homemade empanada dough is easier than it seems and allows you to customize fillings and cooking methods to your taste.
With the right measurements, proper sealing, and a few simple tips, you’ll get perfect empanadas every time—golden, flavorful, and ready for any occasion.
