Sweet Empanadas with Spiced Chocolate Filling
Inspired by the traditional Latin American empanada, this dessert version brings a sweet twist with a luxurious spiced chocolate filling. The delicate crust envelops a rich and aromatic chocolate mix influenced by the spices of ancient Mesoamerica, creating a heavenly combination of flavors that's both comforting and exotic.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 large egg beaten, for both dough and glazing
- ¼ cup cold water
For the Filling:
- 8 oz dark chocolate finely chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and, using your fingers, incorporate it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 1 beaten egg and cold water. Mix until the dough comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles.
- Heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Mix in cinnamon and cayenne pepper.
- Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork. Brush with beaten egg.
- Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
Lori’s Tips:
- Consider adding a pinch of salt to the chocolate filling to enhance its depth.
- For dietary adaptations, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a non-dairy version.
- Adjust cayenne to your heat preference.
Nutrition
Calories: 441kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 6gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 71mgSodium: 94mgPotassium: 256mgFiber: 4gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 644IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 43mgIron: 5mg
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