Dive into the delightful world of Latin American cuisine with our irresistible Empanadas De Mermelada recipe! These golden pockets of joy hail from countries like Argentina and Chile where they’re cherished as a sweet treat or quick snack. Stuffed with luscious jam or marmalade these empanadas offer a perfect balance of flaky pastry and fruity sweetness that’ll leave everyone craving more.
We love how versatile empanadas can be—whether you’re using homemade preserves or your favorite store-bought jam there’s no wrong way to fill them. Their handheld size makes them ideal for parties picnics or a cozy dessert at home. Plus they’re easier to make than you might think!
Join us as we guide you through crafting these delectable pastries step by step. Let’s bring a taste of Latin tradition to your kitchen with a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
About Empanadas De Mermelada
Dive into the delightful world of Empanadas De Mermelada, a cherished Latin American pastry that captures the essence of sweet indulgence. These golden pockets of joy are filled with luscious jam or marmalade, offering a perfect balance of flaky crust and fruity goodness. Originating from countries like Argentina and Chile, this treat has won hearts globally with its versatility and irresistible flavor. Join us as we explore the rich history, cultural significance, and unique charm of Empanadas De Mermelada, inspiring you to bring this beloved tradition into your kitchen.
History and Cultural Significance
The roots of Empanadas De Mermelada trace back to the broader family of empanadas, a staple in Latin American cuisine with influences from Spanish and indigenous culinary traditions. While savory empanadas often take center stage, the sweet variant filled with mermelada (Spanish for jam) emerged as a delightful dessert or snack. In regions like Argentina, these pastries are a common sight during celebrations and family gatherings, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. We love how this treat embodies the spirit of sharing, often passed around at fiestas or enjoyed with a cup of mate—a traditional herbal drink. Their cultural importance lies in their adaptability, allowing each family to add a personal touch with favorite fillings.
Why We Love Empanadas De Mermelada
There’s so much to adore about Empanadas De Mermelada! First, the contrast of textures steals the show—the crisp, buttery crust gives way to a gooey, sweet filling that bursts with fruity flavor in every bite. We’re obsessed with how versatile they are; whether you use homemade marmalade or a store-bought jam, the result is always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, picnics, or a cozy afternoon snack, these empanadas fit any occasion. Plus, crafting them is a fun activity for the whole family, turning a simple recipe into a cherished memory. As one fan puts it, “Biting into a warm empanada filled with jam feels like a hug from home.”
Nutritional Insights
While Empanadas De Mermelada are undeniably a treat, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional profile to enjoy them mindfully. Below, we’ve outlined approximate values for a single empanada (based on a standard recipe using store-bought jam and a butter-based dough). Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount (per empanada) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12-15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 g |
| Sugar | 10-12 g |
| Protein | 3-5 g |
Ingredients for Empanadas De Mermelada
Let’s dive into the heart of our Empanadas De Mermelada recipe by gathering all the essentials. We’ve curated a precise list to ensure your sweet pastries turn out perfectly flaky and irresistibly delicious.
Dough Ingredients
To craft the signature flaky crust of our Empanadas De Mermelada, we need the following ingredients prepared and ready to go:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted for a smoother texture)
- ½ teaspoon salt (for subtle flavor enhancement)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance the dough)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes for flakiness)
- 1 large egg (beaten for binding)
- ⅓ cup ice-cold water (to keep the dough tender)
Filling Ingredients
The soul of our Empanadas De Mermelada lies in the sweet filling. Here’s what you’ll need to create that burst of fruity goodness:
- 1 cup fruit jam or marmalade (choose your favorite like strawberry, apricot, or guava for a personalized touch)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thicker consistency if jam is runny)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten the flavors)
Essential Tools and Equipment
As we dive into crafting the perfect Empanadas De Mermelada, having the right tools and equipment at our fingertips is crucial. These sweet Latin American pastries demand precision and care to achieve that delightful flaky crust and luscious jam filling. Let’s equip ourselves with everything needed to ensure a seamless baking experience for this beloved dessert. We’ve compiled a detailed list of essentials to help you create these treats with ease and confidence.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools
To bring our Empanadas De Mermelada to life, we rely on a set of fundamental kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl to combine our dough ingredients smoothly.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: Essential for cutting cold butter into the flour to achieve that coveted flaky texture.
- Rolling Pin: Necessary for rolling out the dough to an even thickness of about ⅛ inch for perfect empanada shells.
- Round Cutter or Glass (3-4 inches in diameter): Used to cut out uniform dough circles for consistent empanada sizes.
- Spoon or Small Scoop: Handy for portioning the fruit jam or marmalade filling into each dough round.
- Fork: Perfect for crimping the edges of the empanadas to seal in the sweet filling.
- Pastry Brush: Useful for applying an egg wash to give our empanadas a golden glossy finish.
“Having the right tools transforms the process of making Empanadas De Mermelada from a chore into a joyous culinary adventure!”
Baking Equipment
Beyond basic tools, specific baking equipment ensures our Empanadas De Mermelada bake evenly and come out just right. Gather these items before starting:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy sheet to hold our empanadas during baking. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and ensures our pastries lift off effortlessly after baking.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for that ideal baking environment to achieve a crisp golden crust.
- Cooling Rack: Allows our empanadas to cool evenly after baking preserving their delicate texture.
Optional but Helpful Gadgets
While not strictly necessary, these additional tools can elevate our Empanadas De Mermelada making process:
- Empanada Press or Mold: A handy gadget for shaping and sealing empanadas quickly with a professional look.
- Food Processor: Speeds up the dough-making process by blending butter and flour in seconds.
- Kitchen Scale: Ensures precise measurements of ingredients like flour and butter for consistent results every time.
Quick Reference Table for Tools and Uses
To make things even clearer, we’ve put together a table summarizing the key tools and their specific roles in crafting Empanadas De Mermelada:
| Tool/Equipment | Primary Use | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combining dough ingredients | Essential |
| Pastry Cutter | Cutting butter into flour for flaky dough | Essential |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling dough to even thickness | Essential |
| Round Cutter (3-4 inches) | Cutting uniform dough circles | Essential |
| Baking Sheet | Holding empanadas during baking | Essential |
| Empanada Press | Shaping and sealing empanadas easily | Optional but helpful |
| Food Processor | Speeding up dough preparation | Optional but helpful |
Instructions for Making Empanadas De Mermelada
Let’s dive into the heart of crafting Empanadas De Mermelada with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow these instructions to create a batch of flaky, sweet pastries that capture the essence of Latin American tradition.
Preparing the Dough
Creating the perfect dough is the foundation of our Empanadas De Mermelada. Start by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix these dry ingredients with a whisk to ensure even distribution. Next, cut in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1/4 cup of ice-cold water. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a fork. Mix just until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking it to keep the texture flaky. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it briefly for about 30 seconds. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let it rest and firm up. This step is crucial for easy rolling and a tender crust.
Making the Jam Filling
While the dough chills, let’s prepare the sweet heart of our Empanadas De Mermelada—the jam filling. If you’re using homemade jam, ensure it’s thick to prevent leakage during cooking. Scoop out 1 cup of your favorite fruit jam or marmalade—think strawberry, apricot, or guava for a tropical twist—into a small bowl. If the jam is too runny, simmer it over low heat for 5-10 minutes to reduce excess liquid, stirring occasionally. Let it cool completely before using.
For an extra flavor boost, consider mixing in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the fruitiness. Store-bought jam works just as well if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s of good quality for the best taste. Set the filling aside as we move to assembling our empanadas.
Assembling the Empanadas
Now comes the fun part—shaping our Empanadas De Mermelada! Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use a 4-inch round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough. Gather any scraps, re-roll, and cut again to maximize your yield—you should get about 12-14 circles.
Place 1 tablespoon of the cooled jam filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill as it can cause the empanadas to burst during cooking. Lightly brush the edges of the dough with water using a pastry brush to help seal them. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with your fingers. For a decorative touch, crimp the edges with a fork to create a classic pattern. Repeat this process for all the dough circles and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Frying or Baking the Empanadas
We’ve got two fantastic options to cook our Empanadas De Mermelada—frying for a crispy golden finish or baking for a lighter result. Choose based on your preference!
- Frying Option: Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 2-3 empanadas at a time into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn a deep golden brown. Remove them with the slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. The result? A shatteringly crisp exterior with a gooey jam center that practically melts in your mouth.
- Baking Option: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the empanadas with a beaten egg for a shiny golden finish. Place the baking sheet with the assembled empanadas in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden. The baked version offers a tender flaky crust with the sweet aroma of warm jam wafting through your kitchen.
For a quick reference on cooking times and temperatures, check out the table below:
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time per Batch | Texture Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frying | 350°F (175°C) | 4-6 minutes (2-3 minutes per side) | Crispy and golden |
| Baking | 375°F (190°C) | 20-25 minutes | Tender and flaky |
Serving Suggestions
As we’ve crafted these delightful Empanadas De Mermelada with love and care, let’s explore the best ways to serve them to elevate the experience for family and friends. These sweet pastries, with their flaky crust and luscious jam filling, are incredibly versatile and can shine at any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dessert or a festive party treat, we’ve got you covered with creative and practical ideas to make every bite unforgettable.
Perfect Pairings
Elevate your Empanadas De Mermelada by pairing them with complementary flavors and beverages. Here are some of our favorite combinations to enhance the fruity sweetness and buttery texture:
- Hot Beverages: Serve these pastries alongside a steaming cup of coffee or mate—a traditional South American herbal tea. The warmth of the drink contrasts beautifully with the tender empanada crust while the slight bitterness balances the marmalade’s sweetness.
- Cold Treats: For a refreshing twist especially on warm days, pair your Empanadas De Mermelada with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy coolness melts into the warm pastry creating a heavenly dessert duo.
- Fruit Complements: Offer a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit like strawberries or oranges to echo the jam filling flavors. This adds a burst of freshness to every bite and makes the presentation even more vibrant.
Presentation Tips
First impressions matter and presenting your Empanadas De Mermelada thoughtfully can turn a simple treat into a showstopper. Let’s make them visually appealing with these easy tips:
- Dust with Elegance: Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the empanadas just before serving for a delicate snowy effect that hints at the sweetness inside. This works especially well for baked versions.
- Plate with Style: Arrange the empanadas on a rustic wooden board or a colorful ceramic platter to reflect their Latin American heritage. Add a few mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color.
- Serving Sizes: For parties or gatherings cut larger empanadas into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks. This makes them easy to grab and enjoy without utensils while mingling.
Occasion-Based Serving Ideas
Tailor your Empanadas De Mermelada to suit different events by adapting how you serve them. Here’s how we love to match them to various occasions:
- Family Gatherings: Serve warm straight from the oven during a casual family night. Place them in a basket lined with a checkered cloth for a cozy homemade vibe that screams comfort.
- Festive Celebrations: During holidays or cultural festivities like Día de los Muertos or Christmas, stack the empanadas on a tiered stand as a centerpiece dessert. Pair with a spiced hot chocolate for an extra festive touch.
- Picnics and Outings: Pack cooled Empanadas De Mermelada in an airtight container for a portable sweet snack. They’re perfect for outdoor adventures as they hold up well without refrigeration for a few hours.
Storage and Reheating for Later Serving
Sometimes we make a big batch of Empanadas De Mermelada to enjoy over a few days. Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their delightful texture and flavor:
- Storage: Keep cooled empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Reheating: To revive that freshly baked feel preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the empanadas for 5-7 minutes. If reheating from frozen allow an extra 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
Pro Tip: “Always reheat just before serving to keep that irresistible flaky crunch of the Empanadas De Mermelada. A quick oven refresh transforms them back to perfection!”
With these serving suggestions we’re confident your Empanadas De Mermelada will steal the show at any table. Experiment with pairings and presentations to find what resonates best with your guests and enjoy sharing this sweet Latin American tradition.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
We understand the value of planning ahead especially when it comes to preparing delightful treats like Empanadas De Mermelada. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to enjoy these sweet pastries over a few days our make-ahead and storage tips will ensure they remain as flaky and fruity as the moment they were made. Let’s dive into how we can prep and preserve these Latin American gems with ease.
Preparing Ahead for Convenience
To save time we often prepare components of our Empanadas De Mermelada in advance. Here’s how we do it:
- Dough Preparation: Make the dough up to 2 days ahead. After mixing and kneading wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This keeps the dough fresh and ready to roll out when needed. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using to make it easier to handle.
- Filling Readiness: If using homemade jam prepare it up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its vibrant flavor. This step cuts down on last-minute prep and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Assembled Empanadas: Assemble the empanadas a day ahead by filling and sealing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This way they’re ready to fry or bake straight from the fridge.
Freezing for Future Enjoyment
For longer storage we turn to freezing which preserves the Empanadas De Mermelada wonderfully. Follow these steps:
- Uncooked Empanadas: After assembling arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet ensuring they don’t touch. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to cook there’s no need to thaw—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying or baking time.
- Cooked Empanadas: If you’ve already cooked them let them cool completely to room temperature. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Storage Guidelines for Freshness
Proper storage is key to maintaining the irresistible texture and sweetness of our Empanadas De Mermelada. Here’s a quick reference table to guide us:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Uncooked) | Up to 2 days | Keep assembled empanadas covered on a tray. |
| Refrigerator (Cooked) | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container to avoid drying out. |
| Freezer (Uncooked) | Up to 3 months | Freeze individually first then store in a bag. |
| Freezer (Cooked) | Up to 2 months | Use parchment between layers in a container. |
Reheating for Optimal Taste
When it’s time to enjoy our stored Empanadas De Mermelada reheating them correctly brings back that freshly-made magic. We recommend:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and warm for 8-10 minutes if refrigerated or 10-12 minutes if frozen. This method revives the crispy exterior beautifully.
- Avoid Microwave: We steer clear of microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy and diminish the delightful contrast of textures that makes these empanadas so special.
Conclusion
We hope you’re as excited as we are to bring the sweet charm of Empanadas De Mermelada into your home. These delightful pastries are a perfect way to celebrate Latin traditions and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy treat, this recipe offers endless joy. So grab your apron and let’s keep spreading the warmth one empanada at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Empanadas De Mermelada?
Empanadas De Mermelada are sweet Latin American pastries, popular in countries like Argentina and Chile. They feature a flaky dough filled with jam or marmalade, offering a delightful mix of crisp texture and fruity sweetness. These treats are perfect for desserts or snacks during celebrations and family gatherings.
What ingredients are needed to make Empanadas De Mermelada?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, butter, egg, and water for the dough, plus fruit jam or marmalade for the filling. These simple ingredients create the perfect balance of flaky pastry and sweet filling for a delicious treat.
Can I use store-bought jam for Empanadas De Mermelada?
Yes, store-bought jam works great for Empanadas De Mermelada! It saves time and still delivers a tasty filling. Just ensure it’s thick enough to avoid leakage during cooking. Homemade jam is also an excellent option if you prefer a personal touch.
What are the cooking methods for Empanadas De Mermelada?
You can either fry or bake Empanadas De Mermelada. Frying gives a crispy, golden texture, while baking offers a lighter, healthier option. Both methods are detailed in the recipe, allowing you to choose based on your preference.
How do I store and reheat Empanadas De Mermelada?
Store empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or refrigerate for up to a week. For reheating, use an oven to maintain texture—avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Freezing uncooked or cooked empanadas is also an option for longer storage.
What occasions are best for serving Empanadas De Mermelada?
Empanadas De Mermelada are versatile and perfect for parties, picnics, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Their sweet flavor and portable size make them a crowd-pleaser for any event, whether as a dessert or a snack.
What can I pair with Empanadas De Mermelada?
Pair them with hot beverages like coffee or mate for a cozy treat, or with cold options like ice cream for a refreshing contrast. Fresh fruits also complement their sweetness, enhancing the overall experience with a burst of flavor.
Are Empanadas De Mermelada high in calories?
Yes, they can be calorie-dense due to the dough and sweet filling. A single empanada’s calorie content varies based on size and cooking method, but the article provides nutritional insights to help you enjoy them mindfully as part of a balanced diet.