Pumpkin Empanadas 🎃✨ – A Sweet Fall Favorite
There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, warm spices, and comforting baked goods fresh out of the oven. One of the best ways to celebrate the season is with Pumpkin Empanadas, a beloved pastry in many Latin American households.
These little hand pies are filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture and wrapped in buttery, flaky dough. They’re lightly sweetened, warmly spiced, and perfect for enjoying with coffee, tea, or a cup of hot chocolate. Whether you’re baking them for Día de los Muertos, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy weekend treat, these empanadas are sure to become a seasonal tradition.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Empanadas ❤️
- Festive & seasonal – The perfect fall pastry with pumpkin and warm spices.
- Made from scratch – Buttery homemade dough + rich pumpkin filling.
- Balanced sweetness – Lightly sweetened with coconut sugar.
- Make-ahead friendly – Filling and dough can be prepared in advance.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Filling
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Dough
- 1 ½ cups (225g) whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups (200g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold & cubed
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tablespoon milk
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg, whisked
- Sugar for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Make the Pumpkin Filling
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring until sugar dissolves and filling thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk together, then add to flour mixture.
- Mix until dough comes together (add a teaspoon of milk if too dry).
- Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3️⃣ Assemble the Empanadas
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll dough to about ⅛-inch thick.
- Cut out 4-inch circles with a cutter or glass.
- Place 1 tbsp filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold into a half-moon and press edges to seal. Crimp with a fork.
4️⃣ Bake the Empanadas
- Place empanadas on prepared baking sheet.
- Brush tops with whisked egg and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations 🌟
- Make ahead: Prepare filling and dough up to 2 days in advance. Assemble and bake when ready.
- Extra flaky dough: Chill empanadas for 15 minutes before baking.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add-ins: Mix in raisins, cream cheese, or pecans for extra flavor.
Serving Ideas 🍽️
- Serve warm with coffee, atole, or hot chocolate.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Nutrition (per empanada, approx.) 📊
- Calories: ~220
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 11g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
(Varies by size and filling.)
FAQs ❓
1. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
Not recommended—pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced. Use plain puree for better control.
2. How do I store pumpkin empanadas?
Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze unbaked empanadas, then bake directly from frozen (add 5–7 minutes to bake time).
4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
🎃✨ These Pumpkin Empanadas are a delicious way to celebrate fall, blending the flavors of pumpkin pie with the tradition of empanadas. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or saved for later, they’re sure to bring a little seasonal joy to your table.