Cookie Empanadas Dessert has been a delightful discovery in my kitchen, bringing back a flood of childhood memories with every sweet bite. I remember my grandmother making these tiny, flaky pastries filled with unexpected sweetness, and I’ve always wanted to recreate that magic. This sweet empanadas recipe is my personal journey to capture that nostalgic flavor, blending a unique cottage cheese dough with a luscious jam filling. The aroma of warm, buttery pastry mingled with fruity jam and a hint of almond glaze instantly transports me to simpler times. You’ll find this easy cookie empanada dessert is surprisingly simple to make, yet it tastes incredibly gourmet. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cookie Empanadas Dessert

I’m confident you’ll fall in love with these delightful dessert pockets for so many reasons. They’re not just a treat; they’re an experience!

• These Cookie Empanadas Dessert offer an irresistible blend of flaky, tender pastry and a sweet, fruity filling that will tantalize your taste buds.
• My recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making this sweet hand pie perfect for even beginner bakers.
• They are a budget-friendly way to create an impressive dessert, using simple, readily available ingredients.
• These mini dessert empanadas are fantastic for family gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• The unique dough, inspired by delicious Dessert Empanadas Filipino techniques, gives them a surprisingly tender, cookie-like texture that makes them truly special.
• You can customize the fillings endlessly, from classic jams to chocolate, making each batch a new adventure.
• They’re perfect for meal prep; you can bake them ahead or freeze them unbaked for fresh treats anytime.
• This recipe brings a taste of delightful Dessert Empanadas Filipino tradition with a personal, easy-to-make twist.

Ingredients for Cookie Empanadas Dessert

Making delicious homemade dessert empanadas starts with a few simple ingredients that, when combined, create something truly magical. Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful pastry pockets:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted – Sifting ensures a light, airy dough for your Cookie Empanadas Dessert.
• 1 cup cold butter, cubed – Cold butter is crucial for flaky pastry, so don’t let it soften!
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness to complement the filling.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (small curd, 4% milkfat) – This is my secret ingredient for a tender, cookie-like dough.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a lovely aromatic touch to the dough.
• 1/4 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, apricot, cherry, lemon curd, etc.) – Choose your favorite for the perfect sweet filling!
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) – Forms the base of our simple, elegant almond glaze.
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (for glaze) – Gives the glaze a wonderful, subtle flavor.
• 2 to 3 tbsp milk (as needed for drizzling consistency for glaze) – Use just enough to get that perfect drizzle.

How to Make Cookie Empanadas Dessert

Making these delightful Cookie Empanadas Dessert is a fun and rewarding process. I’ll walk you through each step to ensure your sweet hand pies turn out perfectly flaky and delicious. This is my favorite way to show you how to make cookie empanadas that taste like they came from a gourmet bakery!

1. Step 1: First, combine your sifted all-purpose flour and cold cubed butter in a food processor. Pulse this mixture until it forms coarse, sandy crumbs. This method helps keep the butter cold, which is essential for a flaky pastry.
2. Step 2: Next, add the granulated sugar, salt, cottage cheese, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Continue to pulse until the dough just begins to come together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dough tough.
3. Step 3: Wrap the freshly made Cookie Empanadas Dessert dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to work with.
4. Step 4: Once your dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
5. Step 5: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to an even 1/8-inch thickness. This thinness is key for a delicate, crisp pastry. Now, use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out as many circles as you can from the dough.
6. Step 6: Place about 1/4 teaspoon of your chosen jam or filling in the center of each dough circle. Remember, a little goes a long way here to prevent leaks. This is how to make cookie empanadas with a perfectly balanced filling.
7. Step 7: Moisten the edges of the dough circles lightly with water. Then, carefully fold each circle in half to create a crescent shape. Use a fork to firmly press and seal the edges, creating that classic empanada crimp.
8. Step 8: Arrange the sealed empanadas on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly prick the tops of each one with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents puffing.
9. Step 9: Bake the Cookie Empanadas Dessert for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible!
10. Step 10: Allow the baked empanadas to cool completely on a wire rack. While they cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency for your almond glaze.
11. Step 11: Finally, drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled empanadas. Let the glaze set before serving these irresistible sweet empanadas. Enjoy your homemade treats!

Pro Tips for the Best Cookie Empanadas Dessert

I’ve learned a few tricks over time that will elevate your Cookie Empanadas Dessert from good to absolutely amazing. These simple tips will ensure every batch is a success and help you create the most delicious sweet treats.

• Always use cold ingredients, especially butter and cottage cheese. This is vital for achieving a flaky, tender pastry that melts in your mouth.
• Don’t overfill your empanadas! A small amount of jam (about 1/4 teaspoon) is perfect to prevent leaks during baking and keep your pastries neat.
• Chill your dough thoroughly. This makes it much easier to roll out and handle, resulting in perfectly shaped Cookie Empanadas Dessert.
• Experiment with different jam flavors. Raspberry, apricot, or even a lemon curd can offer delightful variations to your sweet empanadas.

What’s the secret to perfect Mini dessert empanadas?

The real secret lies in the cottage cheese dough. It creates an incredibly tender, cookie-like pastry that’s unique and delicious. This special dough ensures your cookie-filled pastry dessert is flaky yet sturdy enough to hold its sweet filling. It’s what makes these mini dessert empanadas truly stand out.

Can I make Cookie Empanadas Dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated. For baked Cookie Empanadas Dessert, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer enjoyment. Unbaked empanadas can also be frozen and baked later.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cookie Empanadas Dessert?

To avoid common pitfalls, don’t overmix the dough; a light touch keeps it tender. Also, ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling and cutting, which prevents sticking and maintains shape. Lastly, resist the urge to overfill, as this is the primary cause of messy leaks during baking, ruining your perfect Cookie Empanadas Dessert.

Best Ways to Serve Cookie Empanadas Dessert

Once your delightful Cookie Empanadas Dessert are cooled and glazed, it’s time to enjoy them! I love serving these sweet treats for a variety of occasions, and they truly shine when paired thoughtfully. Their delicate flavor makes them incredibly versatile.

For a simple yet elegant presentation, arrange them artfully on a platter with a dusting of extra powdered sugar. They are perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, making them an ideal afternoon pick-me-up or a light after-dinner treat. These mini dessert empanadas are also a fantastic addition to any brunch spread, offering a sweet counterpoint to savory dishes.

If you’re looking for more elaborate sweet hand pie recipes serving ideas, consider a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool, creamy texture provides a wonderful contrast to the flaky pastry and sweet jam filling. For a touch of sophistication, a drizzle of fruit coulis or a scattering of fresh berries can elevate these already charming dessert turnovers into a truly memorable dessert experience.

Nutrition Facts for Cookie Empanadas Dessert

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional aspects of your favorite treats, so I’ve put together the estimated facts for these delicious Cookie Empanadas Dessert. Per serving, which is one delightful cookie, here’s what you can expect:

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you choose for your Cookie Empanadas Dessert.

How to Store and Reheat Cookie Empanadas Dessert

You’ll be happy to know that these delightful Cookie Empanadas Dessert are fantastic for making ahead and storing, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand. After baking, allow your empanadas to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation which can make them soggy.

For short-term storage, place the cooled Cookie Empanadas Dessert in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to last longer, they’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.

If you’re planning for the long haul, these cookie dessert pockets freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat them from frozen in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This brings back their lovely flaky texture almost perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cookie Empanadas Dessert

What are cookie empanadas?

Cookie empanadas are sweet, handheld pastries with a flaky, tender dough, often made with cottage cheese, and filled with various sweet fillings like jam, fruit curd, or even chocolate. They are baked until golden and typically finished with a sweet glaze, making them a delightful dessert or snack. My recipe creates a dough with a unique, cookie-like texture.

Are these similar to traditional empanadas?

While they share the crescent shape and hand-pie format of traditional savory empanadas, cookie empanadas dessert are distinctly sweet. The dough is often richer and more tender, designed to complement dessert fillings rather than savory meats or vegetables. They are a beloved sweet variation, often seen in various cultures.

Can I use other fillings besides jam for my Cookie Empanadas Dessert?

Absolutely! The beauty of these cookie empanadas dessert lies in their versatility. I’ve had great success with lemon curd, Nutella, thick fruit purees, or even a cream cheese filling. Just ensure your chosen filling isn’t too watery, as this can cause leaks during baking. Experiment and find your favorite!

How long do Cookie Empanadas Dessert stay fresh?

Once baked, your Cookie Empanadas Dessert will stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months, making them perfect for meal prepping a sweet treat.

Variations of Cookie Empanadas Dessert You Can Try

The beauty of this Cookie Empanadas Dessert recipe is its incredible adaptability! While the classic jam-filled version is always a hit, I love experimenting with different flavors and presentations. These baked cookie empanada ideas will inspire you to get creative in your kitchen and discover new favorite treats.

• Chocolate Lovers’ Empanadas: Replace the jam with a spoonful of Nutella or a piece of your favorite chocolate bar. The melted chocolate creates a gooey, decadent center that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Tropical Twist: For a brighter flavor, try filling your Cookie Empanadas Dessert with a homemade pineapple or mango curd. The tangy sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tender pastry.
• Savory-Sweet Option: While primarily a dessert, a fig and goat cheese filling can create a sophisticated appetizer. It’s a delightful contrast that works surprisingly well with the cottage cheese dough.
• Miniature Delights: For parties or a lighter bite, use a smaller 2-inch cookie cutter to create mini Cookie Empanadas Dessert. Adjust baking time slightly, and you’ll have perfect bite-sized treats.

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