Table of Contents
Introduction: Pumpkin Empanada
Nothing captures the warmth and nostalgia of fall quite like Pumpkin Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a rich, spiced pumpkin mixture, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth in every bite. Whether you bake them as a holiday tradition, enjoy them with coffee on a crisp morning, or bring them to a family gathering, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Empanadas, in general, have been a staple in Latin American cuisine for centuries, with each country adding its own unique twist. The pumpkin version, however, is particularly beloved in Mexico and the Southwestern United States, especially during fall and winter celebrations like Día de los Muertos and Thanksgiving.
What Are Pumpkin Empanadas, and Why Are They So Popular?
Pumpkin empanadas are a classic Latin American pastry with a flaky, buttery exterior and a sweet, spiced pumpkin filling. They are commonly found in Mexican bakeries (panaderías), and homemade versions often make an appearance at seasonal celebrations.
The History Behind Empanadas
Empanadas trace their roots back to Spain, where they were influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Originally, they were filled with meats, vegetables, and seafood, making them a savory portable meal. When Spanish explorers introduced empanadas to Latin America, local variations flourished. In Mexico, sweet empanadas became especially popular, incorporating pumpkin, guava, and pineapple fillings.
Why Are Pumpkin Empanadas Special?
Pumpkin empanadas stand out for their delicate blend of flavors. The earthy richness of pumpkin, combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, creates an irresistible fall-inspired treat. flaky, buttery exterior similar to an old-fashioned apple turnover
They’re also incredibly versatile:
✔️ Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack
✔️ Easier to make than traditional pies
✔️ Perfect for meal prep – they store well
Now, let’s get started with the ingredients and step-by-step process to make these delicious homemade empanadas!
Ingredients & Step-by-Step Instructions
Ingredients for the Dough & Filling
A great empanada starts with a well-balanced dough. Unlike pie crust, empanada dough is a bit softer and more pliable, making it easier to fold and seal.
Dough Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Can substitute with whole wheat for a rustic taste |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup | Cold, cubed for a flaky crust |
| Sugar | ¼ cup | Adjust for sweetness |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Egg | 1 large | Adds richness & helps binding |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Boosts flavor |
| Milk | 2 tbsp | Adds moisture for pliability |
Pumpkin Filling Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin purée | 1 cup | Not pumpkin pie filling |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | Adds depth of flavor |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Essential for warmth |
| Nutmeg | ½ tsp | Complements pumpkin |
| Cloves | ¼ tsp | Adds a slight spice |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | Creates a velvety texture |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Empanadas
Making the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cut in Butter – Use your hands or a pastry cutter to mix cold, cubed butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add the egg, vanilla, and milk, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead & Chill – Gently knead the dough for 1-2 minutes, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
✅ Expert Tip: Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinkage when baking and enhances the flaky texture.
Preparing the Pumpkin Filling
- Cook the Pumpkin Mixture – In a saucepan, combine pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Simmer Until Thickened – Stir continuously over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture slightly darkens and thickens.
- Cool Before Filling – Let the mixture cool completely before using.
✅ Pro Tip: If your pumpkin mixture is too runny, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
Assembling the Empanadas
- Roll Out Dough – Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough ¼-inch thick.
- Cut Circles – Use a round cutter (or an inverted glass) to cut 3-4 inch circles.
- Fill & Fold – Add 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin filling to each dough circle. Fold it over and press the edges together.
- Seal & Crimp – Use a fork or a decorative twist method to secure the edges.
- Apply Egg Wash – Lightly brush with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
Baking vs. Frying Pumpkin Empanadas – Which One Is Better?
One of the most debated aspects of making pumpkin empanadas is deciding whether to bake or fry them. Each method has its advantages, and your choice will depend on texture, flavor preference, and convenience.
Baking Pumpkin Empanadas
Baking is a healthier, hands-off approach that allows the empanadas to cook evenly and consistently. This method ensures a light, crisp crust while allowing the pumpkin filling to meld with the dough, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
✔️ Lower in fat and calories – Baking eliminates excess oil, making empanadas lighter.
✔️ Crispy but soft texture – The dough remains flaky but slightly tender.
✔️ Easy batch cooking – You can bake multiple empanadas at once.
✔️ No splattering oil – Baking is a mess-free process.
How to Bake Perfect Empanadas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Brush each one with an egg wash for a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown.
For those curious about the science behind baking, this guide from King Arthur Baking breaks down key techniques that help create the perfect texture.
Frying Pumpkin Empanadas
Frying creates an extra-crispy, indulgent crust that pairs beautifully with the smooth, spiced filling. If you love rich, buttery pastries, frying is the way to go.
✔️ Golden, crispy texture through the hot oil crisps the exterior quickly.
✔️ Faster cooking time – Each empanada cooks in about 2-3 minutes per side.
✔️ More traditional – Many Mexican and Latin American bakeries fry their empanadas.
How to Fry Empanadas Perfectly:
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place empanadas into the oil, frying 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Which Method Is Better?
If you prefer a lighter, crispier texture, baking is ideal. However, if you love the extra crunch and richness of traditional empanadas, frying is the better option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Empanadas
Even experienced bakers can make small mistakes that affect the texture, taste, and appearance of their empanadas. Below are some common errors and how to fix them.
Overfilling the Empanadas
Adding too much pumpkin filling can cause empanadas to burst open while baking or frying.
✔️ Solution: Use only 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada and press the edges firmly to seal them properly.
Not Chilling the Dough
Skipping the chilling process makes the dough harder to handle, leading to tough, dry empanadas.
✔️ Solution: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This keeps the butter firm, ensuring a flaky texture.
Using Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Purée
Pumpkin pie filling is pre-spiced and sweetened, making the filling too runny and overly sweet.
✔️ Solution: Always use pure pumpkin purée and season it yourself to control the flavor and texture.
Serving and Storing Pumpkin Empanadas
Pumpkin empanadas taste best when warm and fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated for later enjoyment.
How to Serve Pumpkin Empanadas
✔️ With Coffee or Hot Chocolate – The warm, spiced flavors pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee.
✔️ With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – Adds a creamy, indulgent contrast.
✔️ Sprinkled with Cinnamon Sugar – Enhances the warm, autumnal flavors.
✔️ Pairs well with creamy desserts like banana pudding cheesecake
Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Pumpkin Empanadas
Want to elevate your pumpkin empanadas? Try these expert tips and creative variations.
Pro Tips for Perfect Empanadas
✔️ Use a Fork to crimp the Edges – This ensures a tight seal and prevents leaks.
✔️ Make a Small Vent Hole – This allows steam to escape and prevents sogginess.
✔️ Brush with Cinnamon-Sugar Butter – Adds a flavorful glaze.
FAQs: Pumpkin Empanadas
Do Empanadas Taste Better Baked or Fried?
Both methods have their own benefits! Baked empanadas are lighter and crisp, while fried ones have a rich, golden crunch.
Is Empanada Dough the Same as Pie Crust?
Not quite. Empanada dough is softer and more elastic, making it easier to fold and seal. Pie crust is flakier and crumbles more easily.
What Happens If I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Purée?
Pumpkin pie filling is pre-spiced and pre-sweetened, which can make empanadas too sweet and runny. Stick with pumpkin purée for better texture and control.
What Is the Difference Between Spanish and Mexican Empanadas?
Spanish empanadas are typically large, meal-sized pastries, often filled with meat or seafood.
Mexican empanadas can be sweet or savory, and they are usually smaller and handheld.
What Nationality Makes the Best Empanadas?
Different cultures have their own unique styles of empanadas!
✔️ Argentina is known for savory, meat-filled empanadas.
✔️ Mexico is famous for sweet and savory varieties, including pumpkin empanadas.
✔️ Puerto Rico – Specializes in flaky, deep-fried empanadas.
What Do Puerto Ricans Call Empanadas?
In Puerto Rico, empanadas are often called “pastelillos” or “empanadillas.”
Pumpkin Empanadas
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
Description
Nothing captures the warmth and nostalgia of fall quite like Pumpkin Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a rich, spiced pumpkin mixture, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth in every bite. A staple in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, these empanadas are popular for Día de los Muertos, Thanksgiving, and cozy autumn mornings with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with whole wheat for a rustic taste)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp milk (adds moisture for pliability)
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
- 1 tbsp butter (creates a velvety texture)
For the Egg Wash (Optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for a golden, glossy crust)
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cut in Butter – Use a pastry cutter (or hands) to mix in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add the egg, vanilla, and milk, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead & Chill – Gently knead for 1-2 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
✅ Pro Tip: Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinkage when baking and enhances the flaky texture.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
- Cook the Pumpkin Mixture – In a saucepan, combine pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Simmer Until Thickened – Stir continuously over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture darkens and thickens.
- Cool Before Filling – Let the mixture cool completely before using.
✅ Pro Tip: If the filling is too runny, simmer for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
3. Assemble the Empanadas
- Roll Out the Dough – Lightly flour a surface and roll out dough to ¼-inch thick.
- Cut Circles – Use a 3-4 inch round cutter (or an inverted glass) to cut dough circles.
- Fill & Fold – Add 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin filling to each dough circle. Fold over and press edges together.
- Seal & Crimp – Use a fork (or a decorative twist method) to seal the edges.
- Apply Egg Wash – Lightly brush with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake or Fry the Empanadas?
You can choose to bake or fry your pumpkin empanadas depending on your texture preference.
Baking Instructions (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
✔️ Lighter and crisp
✔️ Mess-free & easy batch cooking
✔️ Lower in fat & calories
Notes
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican, Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
Pumpkin empanadas are a delicious, comforting treat that combines flaky pastry with a warm, spiced filling. Whether baked or fried, they make a perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or an everyday snack.
Now that you know everything about making the perfect pumpkin empanadas, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking!