Apple Empanadas Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• • 420 g (3 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour (00 flour)
  • 50 g sugar

• • 8 g vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 50 ml sunflower seed oil

• 10 g (2 teaspoons) baking powder
• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• • 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• • 2 tablespoons sugar (for the filling)
  • 1 tablespoon jam (your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking apples)

Directions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   • • In a large mixing bowl, combine 420 g flour, 50 g sugar, 8 g vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
     • In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 50 ml sunflower oil. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
     • Add 10 g baking powder and knead gently until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the apple filling:
   • • In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
     • Add the diced apples and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and caramelized.
   • Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of jam. Let cool slightly.
3. Assemble the empanadas:
   • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
     • Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough (about 10 cm in diameter).
     • Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each circle.
   • Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Bake the empanadas:
   • • Place the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • • Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Tips:

• For added flavor, sprinkle cinnamon over the apple filling before sealing the empanadas.
• You can also brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for a golden finish.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Apples provide dietary fiber and essential vitamins, supporting digestive health.

• Eggs contribute protein and important nutrients.
• Sunflower oil is rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, promoting heart health.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian.

• Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.