Few treats capture the joy of homemade baking like empanadas de mermelada. These golden pastries with their sweet jam filling instantly transport us to bustling Latin American bakeries and cozy family kitchens. Whether we’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying them with afternoon coffee these empanadas always bring smiles.
We love how simple pantry ingredients come together to create something so special. Each bite offers a flaky crust and a burst of fruity flavor making them impossible to resist. Let’s explore how easy it is to make these classic jam-filled empanadas at home and add a touch of sweetness to any day.
Why You’ll Love This Empanadas De Mermelada Recipe
We absolutely love Empanadas De Mermelada for their irresistible balance of crisp pastry and sweet jam filling. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in our baking repertoire:
- Simple and Accessible Ingredients: We use pantry staples like flour, butter, and sugar, making these pastries budget-friendly and easy to prepare anytime.
- Customizable Fillings: We can fill our empanadas with any favorite jam—strawberry, guava, apricot, or homemade creations—catering to every palate and season.
- Homemade Flaky Texture: Our method creates an incredibly flaky, golden-brown crust that rivals what we find in the best bakeries.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These sweet empanadas are ideal for breakfast, dessert, snacks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just a few basic steps, making it convenient for novice and experienced bakers alike.
Key Reasons to Try Empanadas De Mermelada
| Reason | What Makes It Special |
|---|---|
| Ease of Preparation | Step-by-step instructions make it simple for everyone |
| Versatility | Any favorite jam or fruit preserve works as the filling |
| Comfort & Nostalgia | Reminiscent of Latin American childhood treats and cherished bakery memories |
| Crowd-Pleaser | Always a hit at gatherings, parties, or family coffee breaks |
We savor every bite of these warm, jam-filled pastries, enjoying the golden crust and fragrant, sweet filling. With just a handful of ingredients and little time in the kitchen, we can bring a taste of tradition and comfort into our home. As we bite into each empanada, we experience the true pleasure of homemade Empanadas De Mermelada—the perfect blend of tradition and sweet satisfaction.
Ingredients for Empanadas De Mermelada
We rely on a handful of essential pantry staples to make our Empanadas De Mermelada irresistibly flaky and sweet. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, delivering that perfect bite every time.
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup cold milk (plus extra if needed)
For dough that’s light and flaky, always use cold butter and handle gently.
For the Filling
- 3/4 cup fruit jam or preserves (strawberry, guava, apricot, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken runny jam)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (to brighten up the filling)
Jam Filling Options Table
| Jam Flavor | Description | Ideal Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberry | Classic and sweet | Light dough |
| Guava | Tropical notes | Buttery pastry |
| Apricot | Tangy and vibrant | Sugar-topped crust |
Optional Toppings
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (egg wash for shine)
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar or granulated sugar (for crunch)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting after baking
Enhance our Empanadas De Mermelada by finishing with a sprinkle of sugar or a snowy coating of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To create authentic Empanadas De Mermelada, we rely on a few essential kitchen tools that deliver the best results and make the process easier. Here is a detailed overview of what we need:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For combining the dough ingredients and preparing fillings |
| Pastry cutter or fork | To cut cold butter into the flour for a flaky dough |
| Rolling pin | For rolling out the pastry dough to an even thickness |
| Biscuit cutter or round cookie cutter (3-4 inches) | To shape uniform pastry circles |
| Spoon | For spooning jam onto the dough circles |
| Fork | To seal the empanadas’ edges and create decorative crimps |
| Baking sheet | For arranging empanadas before baking |
| Parchment paper | To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking |
| Pastry brush (optional) | For brushing the tops with egg wash for a golden finish |
| Cooling rack | To cool empanadas evenly after baking |
Key Tips for Equipment Use
- Use a pastry cutter or fork to ensure the butter stays cold for a flaky crust.
- A biscuit cutter or round cookie cutter helps us maintain a consistent empanada size, ensuring even baking.
- Parchment paper saves on cleanup and prevents sticking.
- For a beautiful finish, a pastry brush lets us evenly apply egg wash or milk to the tops.
Having these tools ready sets us up for success as we create Empanadas De Mermelada that look as inviting as they taste.
Directions for Empanadas De Mermelada
We guide you through each step to create empanadas de mermelada that turn out golden, flaky, and irresistibly sweet. Follow these instructions to bring delicious Latin American pastry flavor into your kitchen.
Prep: Making the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Cut in 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 1 egg and 1/4 cup cold water. Mix just until the dough begins to come together, adding an extra tablespoon of water if needed.
- Knead the dough gently on a lightly floured surface for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a disk. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
Prep: Preparing the Jam Filling
- Scoop your favorite jam (such as strawberry, guava, or apricot) into a bowl.
- Stir the jam until smooth for easy spreading. If the jam is very thick, add 1 teaspoon of water and stir well.
Sample Jam Flavor Options (Per Batch)
| Jam Flavor | Amount |
|---|---|
| Strawberry | 1/2 cup |
| Guava | 1/2 cup |
| Apricot | 1/2 cup |
Assemble: Filling and Sealing the Empanadas
- Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a 3- or 4-inch biscuit cutter to cut out dough circles.
- Place 1 tablespoon of prepared jam in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon, pressing the edges to seal.
- Crimp the sealed edge with a fork to ensure the empanadas are tightly closed.
“For super flaky empanadas de mermelada, avoid overfilling—this prevents leaks and bursting during baking.”
Cook: Baking or Frying Instructions
Baking
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange filled empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush tops with a beaten egg for shine.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
Frying
- Heat 2 inches of neutral oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (177°C).
- Fry empanadas in batches, turning once, until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
| Method | Temperature | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking | 375°F | 18-22 min | Flaky, golden |
| Frying | 350°F | 2-3 min/side | Crisp, golden |
Cool and Finish: Optional Toppings and Serving
- Let empanadas cool slightly on a wire rack.
- For extra sweetness, dust with powdered sugar or brush with a thin layer of melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve empanadas de mermelada warm or at room temperature—ideal for coffee breaks or dessert platters.
Tip: Pair with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a show-stopping treat.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Planning ahead with our Empanadas De Mermelada recipe makes serving fresh, flaky pastries effortless. With a few smart steps, we can guarantee perfect results and maximum flavor—whether baking a batch in advance or storing leftovers.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare Dough in Advance:
We can make the pastry dough up to two days ahead. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
- Assemble and Refrigerate:
It’s easy to assemble the empanadas, seal, and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking or frying.
- Freeze for Longer Storage:
Arrange unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They keep well in the freezer for up to two months.
Empanadas De Mermelada Storage Table
| Storage Method | Preparation Needed | Duration | Reheating Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate (Baked) | Airtight container | 3 – 4 days | Briefly reheat at 300°F |
| Freeze (Unbaked) | Freeze individually, store in bag | 2 months | Bake from frozen, add 3 – 5 mins |
| Freeze (Baked) | Cool, wrap, airtight bag | 1 month | Thaw overnight, warm in oven |
Storage Tips for Best Results
- Store baked empanadas de mermelada in a single layer or with parchment between layers to avoid sticking.
- Always let freshly baked pastries cool completely before covering or storing to prevent sogginess.
- “Never store empanadas with powdered sugar or toppings—dust after reheating to preserve crunch and appearance.”
- To reheat, use the oven for a crisp texture. Avoid microwaves as they can make the pastry tough.
With these storage strategies, we always have delicious, homemade empanadas de mermelada ready for any craving or occasion.
Tips and Variations
We can personalize our empanadas de mermelada with endless options to delight any palate or occasion.
Filling Variations
- Mix and Match Jams: Experiment with strawberry, guava, apricot, or raspberry jam to suit the season and your preferences.
- Fresh Fruit Fusion: Combine jam with a few diced fresh fruits for a chunkier filling and a natural sweetness.
- Creamy Twist: Add a dollop of cream cheese or dulce de leche beneath the jam for a rich contrast.
Dough Enhancements
- Whole Wheat Upgrade: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add a hearty note and extra fiber.
- Butter Substitutes: For a dairy-free version, use cold coconut oil or plant-based butter instead of traditional butter.
Creative Shape and Size
- Mini Empanadas: Create bite-sized versions for parties or kid-friendly snacks—use a smaller biscuit cutter and reduce baking time.
- Decorative Edges: Seal the edges with a fork for a rustic look, or crimp with fingers for a classic bakery finish.
Topping Additions
- Sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking for sparkle and crunch.
- Dust powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a light coating of cinnamon sugar after cooling for an aromatic top layer.
Make-Ahead & Storage Reminders
Refer to our storage chart to optimize freshness:
| Step | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prepared Dough | Refrigerate | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 days |
| Unbaked Assembled Empanadas | Freeze | Freeze on tray, transfer to bag, bake from frozen plus 3-5 minutes |
| Baked Empanadas | Airtight Container | Keep at room temp for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days |
Quick Serving Tips
- Serve empanadas de mermelada warm from the oven for maximum flakiness and aroma.
- Pair with freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate to evoke the flavors of a traditional Latin American café.
- For brunch, arrange alongside fresh fruit and a selection of other breakfast pastries.
“The beauty of empanadas de mermelada lies in their adaptability—make them your own with the jams, finishes, and shapes that bring you joy.”
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Filling leaks during baking | Chill assembled empanadas before baking; avoid overfilling with jam |
| Dough is tough | Use cold butter and handle dough gently to keep texture flaky |
| Burned bottoms | Bake on the center rack on a parchment-lined sheet and check a few minutes early |
We can turn each baking session into a new adventure by keeping our techniques flexible and our flavor pairings fresh with these empanadas de mermelada tips and variations.
Serving Suggestions
When serving empanadas de mermelada, we love to create an inviting experience that highlights their sweet flavor and flaky crust. These pastries are incredibly versatile and fit beautifully into any mealtime or celebration.
Best Times to Serve
| Occasion | Serving Ideas |
|---|---|
| Breakfast or Brunch | Warm from the oven with coffee or milk |
| Afternoon Snack | Served with hot tea or a cool glass of lemonade |
| Dessert | Plated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream |
| Party Platter | Arranged with mini pastries for sharing |
| Holiday Gathering | Presented on festive trays with fresh fruit |
Pairing Options
- Coffee or Espresso: The subtle bitterness balances the sweet jam filling.
- Herbal Tea: A light, floral blend like chamomile elevates fruit notes.
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of orange, berries, or melon add color and freshness.
- Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A cool, creamy companion enhances the warm pastries.
Creative Presentation Tips
- Dust with powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mix for a classic bakery finish.
- Arrange on a wooden board with bowls of extra jam for dipping.
- Wrap in parchment and string for picnic-ready treats.
- Serve as mini empanadas for bite-sized appetizers at brunches or buffets.
Special Serving Touches
“Empanadas de mermelada bring warmth and sweetness to any gathering—we love passing them around warm from the oven for that bakery-fresh feel.”
We can add small edible flowers or mint leaves for a pop of color. For holidays, we use theme-colored sprinkles or drizzle with a light vanilla glaze.
Portion Guide
| Empanada Size | Servings Per Person | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Large | 1-2 | Satisfying breakfast |
| Medium | 2-3 | Dessert or snack plate |
| Mini | 3-4 | Party hors d’oeuvres |
By thoughtfully presenting and pairing our empanadas de mermelada, we transform a simple pastry into a standout treat that’s perfect for any table.
Conclusion
Empanadas de mermelada invite us to slow down and savor the sweet moments in life. Whether we’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet treat for ourselves these pastries offer a little taste of comfort and creativity.
Let’s keep exploring new flavors and techniques in our kitchens turning every batch into a delicious memory. With empanadas de mermelada on hand there’s always something special to look forward to.