As the aroma of freshly baked apple cinnamon breakfast empanadas wafted through the kitchen, it was clear that these delightful pastries would become a family favorite. The warm scent of cinnamon combined with the sweet fragrance of apples creates an irresistible invitation to anyone within sniffing distance. Serving these empanadas at breakfast not only fills the house with an inviting aroma but also brings smiles to the faces of everyone gathered around the table. My family, who are always eager to try new breakfast ideas, couldn’t resist the charm of these empanadas. Their golden, flaky crust encasing a sweet and spiced filling makes them a perfect choice for a satisfying morning treat.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect apple cinnamon breakfast empanadas begins with gathering the right ingredients. The quality and freshness of these ingredients can significantly impact the outcome, so I always recommend selecting the best available. For the dough, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/3 cup ice water
For the delectable apple cinnamon filling, gather the following:
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
And for the glaze:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough holds together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
While the dough chills, prepare the apple cinnamon filling. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg with milk to create an egg wash. Brush the empanadas with the egg wash to achieve a golden finish. Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields about 12 empanadas, with each empanada serving as a single portion. Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, making these empanadas a reasonably indulgent breakfast treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Preparation Time
The total preparation time for these apple cinnamon breakfast empanadas is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes about 15 minutes to prepare the dough and filling, 30 minutes to chill the dough, and another 20-25 minutes for baking. While they do require a bit of time to prepare, the process is straightforward and the results are undeniably rewarding.
How to Serve
- Warm, straight from the oven for the freshest taste.
- Sprinkled with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Paired with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like breakfast.
- Served with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Additional Tips
- Chill the butter: Use chilled butter to achieve a flaky crust. The colder the butter, the better the texture of the dough.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on the type of apples used, you may want to adjust the sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- Seal the edges: Ensure the edges of the empanadas are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Experiment with spices: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of flavor in the filling.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dough and filling in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the empanadas fresh in the morning.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made empanada dough or even puff pastry as a time-saving alternative, though homemade dough often offers a superior texture and flavor.
Q: What type of apples work best for the filling?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smiths are excellent for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Q: Can these empanadas be frozen?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked empanadas on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How long do the empanadas last once baked?
A: Once baked, the empanadas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Q: Is it possible to make a vegan version of these empanadas?
A: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk for the glaze. Ensure the pastry is also vegan-friendly if using store-bought options.










