Guava and Cheese Empanadas

Experience a delightful fusion of tropical flavors with these golden air-fried Guava and Cheese Empanadas. This Latin American-inspired treat features a crispy, flaky crust that gives way to a luscious filling of melted guava paste and creamy cheese, making it the perfect choice for a sweet dessert or an afternoon snack.

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Traditional empanadas are a culinary staple, but this modern air-fryer version simplifies the process while preserving the signature texture. Whether you are craving a vegetarian-friendly snack or a quick dessert to impress guests, these pastries offer a gourmet experience with very little effort.

Ingredients

• 1 package (400 g) refrigerated pie dough or empanada dough (enough for 10 rounds)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 120 g (4 oz) guava paste, cut into 10 equal strips
• 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, cut into 10 equal pieces

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat air fryer to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

Roll out the dough and cut into 10 circles, about 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter.

Step 3

Place a strip of guava paste and a piece of cream cheese in the center of each dough circle.

Step 4

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal.

Step 5

Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 6

Place empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).

Step 7

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 8

Let cool slightly before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, make sure to seal the edges of the dough firmly with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking. Preheating the air fryer is essential for that immediate crispness, and using a beaten egg wash is the secret to achieving that beautiful bakery-style golden sheen.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling or dusting the finished empanadas with powdered sugar. If guava paste is unavailable, you can substitute it with thick fruit preserves. These pastries are easily customized to suit your sweet tooth.

Serviervorschläge

These empanadas are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is at its creamiest. Serve them alongside a strong cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. If you have leftovers, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their original flaky texture.

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With their irresistible combination of flaky pastry and gooey filling, these Guava and Cheese Empanadas are sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking made easy with the power of your air fryer!

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash for the same shiny finish.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cream cheese provides the creamiest texture and mild flavor that balances the sweet guava perfectly. Queso fresco or mascarpone also work well if you prefer slight variations in taste and texture.

→ Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely. A simple flour, butter, salt, and water dough works beautifully. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent shrinking during baking or air frying.

→ How should I store leftover empanadas?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes the dough soggy.

→ What can I use instead of guava paste?

Thick fruit preserves like membrillo (quince paste), fig paste, or apricot preserves work well. Ensure whichever substitute you choose is thick enough to hold its shape during cooking.

→ Do I need to thaw the dough first?

If using frozen dough, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cold dough is easier to work with and helps seal the edges properly.