Get ready to savor the irresistible taste of Vegan Empanadas. Golden, flaky pastry pockets filled with a rich, savory blend of vegetables and spices that bring out the best of plant-based flavor. Each bite of these Vegan Empanadas is a delightful balance of crispy, buttery crust and warm, spiced filling, making them an absolute treat for any occasion. Whether you prefer them baked to golden perfection or fried for an extra crisp, these Vegan Empanadas are as versatile as they are delicious.

The filling is a medley of sautéed vegetables that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the natural sweetness of bell peppers, and the heartiness of potatoes, all seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano. This savory filling, tucked inside the light and tender crust, creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. And the best part? These Vegan Empanadas are fully customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients or even sneak in a bit of heat with jalapeños for an extra kick.

Imagine serving these delightful Vegan Empanadas fresh from the oven or pan, with the aroma filling the room, and the crispy, golden crust giving way to a warm, flavorful filling. They’re perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a main dish served with a side of tangy salsa, creamy guacamole, or vegan sour cream. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or just indulging in a cozy night in, these Vegan Empanadas are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Not only are these Vegan Empanadas simple to make, but they’re also an excellent way to enjoy comfort food that’s completely plant-based. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures, proving that vegan dishes can be both hearty and deeply satisfying. Embrace the joy of making these hand-held pastries from scratch, and enjoy the versatility and deliciousness of this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 ¼ cups vegan butter (like Earth Balance), softened
• 1 large flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 8–10 tablespoons cold water (as needed)

For the Filling:

• Your choice of filling (e.g., fruit jam, dulce de leche, chocolate spread, or pumpkin puree)

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar and ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
   • Add the softened vegan butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in the flax egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and cold water gradually until a dough forms. You may need to adjust the amount of water.
   • Knead the dough gently until smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • If using fruit jam or dulce de leche, ensure it is ready to use. If you prefer a homemade filling (like pumpkin puree), prepare it in advance.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thick.
   • Use a round cutter (about 4–5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Fill the Empanadas:
   • Place about 1–2 tablespoons of your chosen filling in the center of each dough circle.
   • Moisten the edges with a little water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
5. Bake:
   • Place the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges.
6. Serve:
   • Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon if desired.

Tips for Success

• Filling Options: You can customize your empanadas with various fillings like chocolate chips, fresh fruit, or nut butter.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for later use.
• Serving Suggestions: These empanadas are delicious served warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream or alongside fresh fruit.

Enjoy these Vegan Sweet Empanadas as a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

• Prepare in Advance: Save time by making the filling a day or two ahead! Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll be ready when you are.
• Get Creative with Fillings: Customize your Vegan Empanadas to suit your taste! Add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a delicious twist, or try incorporating beans or tofu for added protein.
• Storage and Reheating: Keep any leftover empanadas fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them as crispy as day one, reheat them in an oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

These Vegan Empanadas are perfect as appetizers or as part of a main meal! Enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone!