The Best Homemade Empanada Dough Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making your own empanada dough is easier than you think, and the results are so worth it. You’ll love how versatile and delicious this recipe turns out, perfect for any filling you crave. It’s soft yet sturdy, ensuring your empanadas hold together beautifully. Plus, it comes together with just a few simple ingredients you likely already have at home. And the best part? You’ll feel like a baking pro when you see those golden, flaky pockets in the oven!
Recipe
Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish enjoyed in many cultures. This homemade empanada dough recipe is easy to make and perfect for both sweet and savory fillings.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup ice water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg, then mix in the ice water and vinegar.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling out.
Notes:
- For a flakier texture, keep the butter as cold as possible.
- If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: Varies based on filling
Cuisine: Latin American
Serving: Makes about 12 empanada wrappers.
Nutrition
Empanada dough provides essential nutrients and energy. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 175 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade empanadas with savory side dishes like fresh salads, roasted veggies, or creamy guacamole to balance the flavors. For dessert, I’ll pair them with something sweet, like caramel drizzles or a scoop of ice cream, for a fun treat. It’s all about mixing it up to keep things exciting!
Savory Side Dishes
While the empanadas are unquestionably the star of the meal, pairing them with the right savory sides can turn a simple dish into a complete feast. I love serving them with a fresh green salad, topped with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables, like peppers and zucchini, add a smoky depth I can’t resist. A bowl of seasoned black beans or a creamy cilantro-lime rice complements the flavors perfectly. For something heartier, I’ll go with a simple chicken or beef stew. These sides elevate the meal, making it feel satisfying and well-rounded, without overshadowing the empanadas.
Sweet Dessert Pairings
After savoring those rich, savory empanadas and sides, there’s nothing like ending the meal with something sweet. I love pairing them with flan—its creamy caramel topping complements the crispy dough perfectly. If I’m in the mood for fruit, I whip up a fresh mango or pineapple salsa, or even drizzle some honey over sliced strawberries. Churros with chocolate dipping sauce are another favorite, adding a warm, cinnamon-kissed finish. For simpler options, I dust powdered sugar over mini dessert empanadas filled with dulce de leche or guava paste. These sweet treats make every bite feel like a celebration!
