If you’re looking for a delicious twist on traditional fall desserts, these Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas are a must-try. Combining the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin, this recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Whether you’re preparing a treat for Thanksgiving, a cozy autumn gathering, or just want to indulge in something special, these empanadas are sure to impress. The crispy golden exterior provides the perfect contrast to the velvety filling, creating a mouthwatering bite every time.
Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you don’t have to be a pastry pro to enjoy these fall-inspired delights. With the classic taste of pumpkin and a cheesecake filling that’s irresistibly creamy, these Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas will become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Get ready to treat yourself to this seasonal favorite that’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas Recipe
If you’re excited to make these delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas, you’ll be glad to know that the ingredients are simple and easy to find. The magic happens when you combine the right blend of warm spices, creamy cheesecake filling, and a crispy, flaky dough. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started on this scrumptious fall-inspired treat.
For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
The filling is the star of these empanadas, offering a rich and creamy texture with the perfect amount of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect cheesecake-pumpkin combo:
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): The base of the cheesecake filling, cream cheese provides that velvety texture and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.
- Pumpkin Puree (1/2 cup): For that classic fall flavor, pumpkin puree gives the empanadas their signature taste and beautiful orange hue. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added spices and sugars.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): This adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the cream cheese and the earthiness of the pumpkin.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Brown sugar brings a hint of molasses flavor that complements the spices in the pumpkin.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): The warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon is essential for creating that cozy, fall vibe. It adds depth and richness to the filling.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Nutmeg is another classic spice that adds a touch of warmth and a hint of holiday spice to the filling.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and brings the flavors together in harmony.
- Salt (Pinch): A tiny bit of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
For the Empanada Dough
The dough for these Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas is just as important as the filling, providing the perfect crispy shell to encase that creamy goodness. You can either use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch. Here’s what you’ll need for the dough if you decide to make it from scratch:
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The main ingredient in the dough, all-purpose flour helps create a sturdy yet flaky base for the empanadas.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, cold): Cold butter is essential for making the dough flaky. When the butter melts during baking, it creates pockets that help the dough rise and become crisp.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): A little salt in the dough balances the sweetness of the filling and enhances the flavor of the butter.
- Sugar (1 tbsp): A small amount of sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the dough, helping it to become golden and slightly caramelized when baked.
- Cold Water (1/4 cup): Cold water helps bind the dough together without warming up the butter, which could affect the flakiness.
- Egg Wash (1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water): Brushing the empanadas with egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden finish and helps the dough achieve that crispy texture.
If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, pre-made empanada dough discs or puff pastry can also be used as a shortcut. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as store-bought dough might cook faster.
For Frying and Garnishing
Once you have your pumpkin cheesecake filling and dough ready, it’s time to fry those empanadas to crispy perfection! Here’s what you’ll need to finish them off:
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): Vegetable oil is the best option for frying empanadas, as it has a high smoke point and creates that golden, crispy exterior.
- Cinnamon Sugar (1/4 cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon): After frying, roll the empanadas in cinnamon sugar to add a sweet, spicy coating that enhances the fall flavors and makes the empanadas extra indulgent.
- Powdered Sugar (optional, for garnish): If you’re feeling extra indulgent, dust the empanadas with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Optional Variations and Add-Ins
While the basic ingredients listed above are the essentials for making Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas, you can get creative and customize them to your liking. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: If you love a little crunch, adding finely chopped nuts to the filling can give the empanadas an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the empanadas before serving for an extra decadent touch.
- Chocolate Chips: For a bit of chocolatey goodness, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips into the filling for a fun, sweet surprise in each bite.
- Pumpkin Spice: If you prefer a stronger pumpkin spice flavor, you can substitute the cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin spice. It’s a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice, which will elevate the flavor even further.
Instructions for Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas! This recipe comes together fairly easily, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of these delightful treats in no time. Follow these instructions to make sure your empanadas turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully creamy on the inside.
Prepare the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
The first step is to create the creamy, pumpkin-infused cheesecake filling that will make your empanadas irresistible. Start by softening the cream cheese—let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will help it blend more easily with the other ingredients.
Once softened, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the pumpkin puree. Mix until fully combined. Next, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until well blended, and taste the filling to adjust the sweetness or spices as needed.
Once it’s perfectly balanced, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes. Chilling it will help the filling firm up and make it easier to work with.
Prepare the Empanada Dough
While the filling chills, prepare the dough. If you’re making dough from scratch, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add small cubes of cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it forms coarse crumbs.
Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water, so add it gradually. Once the dough is formed, knead it for 1-2 minutes, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply thaw it as directed on the package and roll it out lightly to create 4 to 5-inch discs.
Assemble the Empanadas
Now that the filling and dough are ready, it’s time to assemble the empanadas. Roll out the dough into circles, about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Spoon a tablespoon of the chilled pumpkin cheesecake filling into the center of each dough disc, being careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
Press the edges together gently, then use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the empanada. Brush the tops of each empanada with the egg wash (made by whisking together one egg and one tablespoon of water). This will give them a golden finish when they’re cooked.
Cook the Empanadas
At this point, you can choose to fry or bake your empanadas. For frying, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it reaches 350°F (175°C), and a small piece of dough dropped into the oil sizzles immediately. Carefully place the empanadas into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the empanadas and drain them on paper towels. If you prefer to bake them, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the egg-washed empanadas on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Finish and Serve
Once your empanadas are cooked, it’s time to finish them off with a little sweetness. While they’re still warm, roll the empanadas in a cinnamon-sugar mixture (1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon) to coat them with a sweet, spicy layer. For an extra touch, dust them with powdered sugar.
Serve the Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas warm, ideally with a cup of hot cider or your favorite fall beverage. The crispy dough, creamy filling, and warm spices will make these empanadas the perfect treat for autumn gatherings.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas
Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas is a delightful experience, but there are a few tips and tricks that can help elevate your baking (or frying) game and ensure your empanadas turn out perfectly every time. From the filling to the dough to the final touch, these pointers will make your pumpkin-filled treats even better!
1. Use Cold Ingredients for Flaky Dough
If you’re making the dough from scratch, be sure to use cold butter and cold water. Cold ingredients help create a flaky, tender texture. When working the butter into the flour, the cold fat creates little pockets, which will result in a flaky dough after baking or frying. Don’t skip the step of chilling the dough before rolling it out—it helps with ease of handling and prevents the dough from becoming too soft or sticky.
2. Don’t Overfill the Empanadas
It’s tempting to load up your empanadas with lots of that creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling, but remember that less is more! Overfilling can cause the dough to burst open during cooking, leading to a messy kitchen and uneven results. Stick to about one tablespoon of filling per empanada. This will allow the dough to crisp up nicely while keeping the filling intact.
3. Crimp the Edges Well
For a professional look and a sealed empanada, be sure to crimp the edges tightly with a fork. This not only helps to keep the filling inside but also adds a decorative touch. It’s best to crimp while the dough is still cool so that it holds its shape and doesn’t become too soft.
4. Chill the Filling
Chilling the pumpkin cheesecake filling for at least 30 minutes makes it firmer and easier to handle when assembling the empanadas. A colder filling also prevents it from leaking out during the cooking process.
5. Choose the Right Cooking Method
You can bake or fry your empanadas, but each method offers a different texture. Frying gives you a crispy, golden crust with a slight crunch, while baking results in a slightly lighter, flakier crust. If you want the best of both worlds, try frying for the first 2 minutes and then baking them for a few more minutes to ensure the inside stays soft while the outside stays crispy.
6. Add a Touch of Spice
While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic fall spices, feel free to add a little extra flavor to your pumpkin cheesecake filling. A dash of ginger or cloves can add warmth and complexity to the filling, giving your empanadas a unique twist.
7. Serve Warm with a Side of Dipping Sauce
For an extra indulgent touch, serve your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas with a sweet dipping sauce. A caramel sauce, maple syrup, or even a cream cheese glaze would complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
People Also Asked
What Is the Best Way to Store Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas?
To store your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas, let them cool to room temperature first. After they’ve cooled, place them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate the empanadas for up to 3-4 days. For a crispier texture when reheating, try reheating them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen empanadas, bake them directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden and crispy again.
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Dough for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought pie dough as a shortcut to save time when making your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas. Pre-made dough works well and provides a convenient option for busy days.
Be sure to thaw it properly before rolling it out. You’ll still get delicious, flaky empanadas, but the homemade dough option will give you a slightly more buttery and tender texture.
Can I Bake the Empanadas Instead of Frying Them?
Absolutely! Baking your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas is a healthier alternative to frying. If you choose to bake them, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the empanadas on the sheet and brush them with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The result will be a lighter, flakier crust compared to the crispiness from frying.
How Do I Know When the Empanadas Are Done Cooking?
Whether you’re baking or frying your Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas, they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. For frying, cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach a deep golden color.
For baking, the empanadas should take 20-25 minutes at 375°F, but make sure to check the color of the dough—it should be a perfect golden brown. If you cut into one, the filling should be warm and creamy, without any raw dough.
Can I Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Pumpkin Cheesecake filling ahead of time. In fact, chilling the filling for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) helps it firm up and makes it easier to handle when assembling the empanadas.
Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This also enhances the flavor, allowing the spices to fully infuse into the filling.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese in the Filling?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative, you can swap the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese or a mixture of coconut cream and a little cornstarch for a similar creamy texture. For a lighter filling, you could use ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese as a substitute for the cream cheese, although this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How Can I Make the Empanadas Extra Crispy?
For extra crispy Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas, make sure you are using enough oil when frying and heat it to the right temperature—about 350°F (175°C). If you’re baking, a good tip is to brush the empanadas with a little melted butter or oil before placing them in the oven.
This will help the dough crisp up and achieve a golden, flaky texture. If you prefer to fry, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the temperature to drop and result in soggy empanadas.
Can I Add Other Fillings to the Empanadas?
Absolutely! While the pumpkin cheesecake filling is the star of the show, you can experiment with other fillings to complement or mix with the pumpkin flavor. Consider adding a layer of chocolate chips, a few chopped pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce inside the empanada. Just make sure not to overfill them, as this can cause the dough to break open during cooking.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Cheesecake Empanadas are the perfect blend of creamy, spiced pumpkin filling and a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re baking or frying, these treats are easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful dessert that captures the flavors of fall in every bite.
Don’t forget to experiment with different variations, like adding chocolate or nuts, to make them your own. Whether served as an after-dinner treat or a cozy snack with a warm drink, these empanadas will quickly become a seasonal favorite you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!