Delicious Cherry Empanada Recipe: A Tasty Treat

Looking to add a unique and delightful dessert to your recipe collection? Look no further! Introducing the mouthwatering cherry empanada recipe—an absolute crowd-pleaser that will leave your taste buds craving for more. These golden-brown pockets of flaky pastry are filled with sweet and tangy cherry filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of cherries and pastry as we guide you through mastering the art of making cherry empanadas.

Cherry Empanada Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, flaky empanada filled with the delightful combination of cherries and other delicious ingredients. This cherry empanada recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress your friends and family. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make these mouthwatering treats!

Ingredients:

To make these scrumptious cherry empanadas, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Additional sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

Now that you have all the ingredients handy, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions to make these delectable cherry empanadas:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter pieces into the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Slowly add the ice water, tablespoon by tablespoon, mixing gently after each addition.
5. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it onto a lightly floured surface.
6. Knead the dough for a minute or two until it forms a smooth ball.
7. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
2. Toss the mixture gently until the cherries are well coated.
3. Set the filling aside and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
4. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.
5. Spoon a tablespoon of the cherry filling onto one side of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
7. Gently press the edges of the dough together to seal the empanada, and use a fork to create a decorative pattern.
8. Transfer the filled empanadas onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Repeat the process with the remaining dough circles and cherry filling.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Lightly brush each empanada with the beaten egg wash.
2. Sprinkle some additional sugar on top of each empanada for a touch of sweetness.
3. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
4. Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
5. Serve warm and enjoy these delightful cherry empanadas either as a sweet treat or a savory appetizer.

Variations and Tips:

While this cherry empanada recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, you can add your own twist to make it even more special. Here are a few variations and tips:

• Try using different types of cherries, such as sour cherries or black cherries, for a unique flavor profile.
• Experiment with other fillings like cream cheese, almond paste, or even a combination of sweet and savory ingredients.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the cherry filling for an extra layer of warmth and depth of flavor.
• Serve the empanadas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
• For a quick and hassle-free version, you can also use store-bought pie crust or puff pastry instead of making the dough from scratch.

In conclusion, this cherry empanada recipe is a delightful combination of flaky pastry and sweet cherry filling. With its easy-to-follow instructions and customizable variations, you can make these cherry empanadas your own. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet treat or a savory appetizer, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure to create these mouthwatering cherry empanadas that will surely impress your loved ones. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ingredients needed for cherry empanadas?

The ingredients needed for cherry empanadas include flour, butter, salt, water, cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.

How do I make the dough for cherry empanadas?

To make the dough for cherry empanadas, combine flour, butter, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water while mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth and pliable.

Can I use canned cherries for cherry empanadas?

Yes, you can use canned cherries for cherry empanadas. Make sure to drain the cherries before using them in the filling.

How do I make the cherry filling?

To make the cherry filling, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool before using it as a filling for the empanadas.

How do I assemble and bake the cherry empanadas?

To assemble the cherry empanadas, roll out the dough and cut it into circles. Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. Brush the empanadas with an egg wash and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown.

Can I freeze cherry empanadas?

Yes, you can freeze cherry empanadas. Once baked, let them cool completely, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the cherry empanada recipe is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with a flaky pastry crust. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results. So, why wait? Try your hand at making cherry empanadas today and indulge in the irresistible combination of cherries and pastry. Your taste buds will thank you!