Pineapple Empanadas

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12 empanadas

Ingredients

Dough

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pineapple Filling

• 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Egg Wash

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Pineapple Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the pineapple is soft, about 10-15 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
3. Assemble the Empanadas:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
   • Place about 1 tablespoon of the cooled pineapple filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork.
   • Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash.
4. Bake the Empanadas:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the empanadas cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per empanada):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

Enjoy these delicious Pineapple Empanadas right out of the oven, a perfect treat for any occasion!