Guava Empanadas Recipe
This delightful snack combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the sweet and tangy flavor of guava, encased in a crisp, buttery crust. Perfect for a tea-time treat, these empanadas are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a sweet and savory bite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Chilled Water | 1/2 cup |
| Britannia Cream Cheese | 1 cup |
| Guava (finely chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Mixed Nuts (chopped finely) | 1/4 cup |
| Caster Sugar | 1/4 cup (or more, to taste) |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 15 empanadas
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Making the Dough (Outer Crust):
-
Prepare the Dough:
Start by preparing the dough for the empanada crust. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the baking powder and mix well. -
Incorporate Butter:
Chop the unsalted butter into small pieces. Add it to the flour mixture and rub the butter into the flour with your fingers or a pastry cutter. Continue until the mixture becomes crumbly. -
Add Chilled Water:
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the chilled water. Gently mix with your palms and fingers until the dough begins to come together. Once a pliable dough is formed, wrap it in cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preparing the Filling (Stuffing):
- Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the Britannia cream cheese, finely chopped guava, mixed nuts, and caster sugar. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and the cream cheese coats the other ingredients evenly.
Assembling the Empanadas:
-
Divide the Dough:
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Divide the dough into equal portions, each about the size of a large lemon.
Roll each portion of dough into a circle, about 6 inches in diameter. The dough should be thick enough to hold the filling without being too thin. -
Form the Empanadas:
Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the guava and cream cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overstuff.
Brush a small amount of water along the edges of the circle to help seal the empanadas. Fold the dough into a half-moon shape, crimp the edges with a fork to seal, and then gently pierce the center with the fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Baking the Empanadas:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 215°C (425°F) for about 10 minutes. -
Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and brush it with a bit of butter to prevent the empanadas from sticking. Arrange the assembled empanadas on the baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one for even baking. -
Bake the Empanadas:
Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp from the outside. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are perfect for tea time and can be enjoyed with a refreshing beverage like Cinnamon Spiced Orange Iced Tea or alongside crispy Baked Potato Wedges.
Serving Suggestions
These Guava Empanadas are the perfect treat to serve with tea, adding a delightful touch of sweetness and crunch. For a complete tea-time experience, pair them with your favorite beverages such as iced tea or coffee.
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, you can brush the empanadas with a little butter right after baking for a glossy finish. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a sweeter finish.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 7g |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
This Guava Empanadas Recipe combines rich flavors and textures that make it a memorable addition to any snack table. Perfectly balanced with the smoothness of cream cheese, the sweetness of guava, and the crunch of mixed nuts, these empanadas are an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply looking for a delicious snack, this recipe will surely become a favorite!
