Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Perfect Empanada Dough Recipe

  • Total Time: 65–70 minutes
  • Yield: 12–15 empanada discs 1x

Description

This foolproof empanada dough recipe creates a tender, flaky crust perfect for baking or frying. Ideal for both sweet and savory fillings, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (or lard for a traditional taste)
  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 cup cold water
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to distribute evenly.
  2. Cut in the Butter
    • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients
    • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with the vinegar and cold water. Gradually pour into the flour mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough
    • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 3–5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Avoid over-kneading.
  5. Rest the Dough
    • Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Roll and Cut
    • Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (4–6 inches in diameter) to cut empanada discs.
  7. Fill and Seal
    • Add your desired filling, fold the dough over, and seal by pressing with a fork or using the traditional repulgue technique.
  8. Bake or Fry
    • For baked empanadas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), brush with egg wash, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
    • For fried empanadas: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C), fry in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Notes

  • Whole Wheat Dough: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Sweet Dough: Add 1–2 tablespoons of sugar.
  • Dairy-Free: Use vegetable shortening or dairy-free margarine.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • resting time:
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes (baked) / 6–8 minutes (fried)
  • Category: Dough, Pastry
  • Method: Baking frying
  • Cuisine: latin american

Keywords: Empanada dough, homemade empanada, flaky pastry, Latin American dough, easy empanada recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://eateatfood.com/the-perfect-empanada-dough-recipe/

Exit mobile version