1 serving Cherry Empanada contains 190 calories. If you're looking for a delicious treat that won't break the calorie bank, Cherry Empanadas are an excellent choice. They're also easy to make at home, and a fun way to get creative in the kitchen.
In addition to being low in calories, Cherry Empanadas also offer some nutritional value. They contain a small amount of fiber and protein, and are a good source of vitamin C.
In this article, we'll explore the history of Empanadas, the ingredients used in Cherry Empanadas, and some tips for making and serving this delicious treat.
The Nutritional Value of Cherry Empanadas
While Cherry Empanadas aren't exactly a health food, they do offer some nutritional value. One serving contains about 1 gram of fiber and 3 grams of protein, as well as 8% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Of course, they also contain sugar and fat, so it's best to enjoy them in moderation. If you're looking to make Cherry Empanadas a bit healthier, you could try using whole wheat flour for the dough, or cutting back on the sugar in the filling.
The Ingredients in Cherry Empanadas
Cherry Empanadas are typically made with a dough made from flour, butter, sugar, and water. The filling is made from cherries (either fresh or frozen), sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice. Some recipes also include cinnamon or other spices. To make a batch of Cherry Empanadas, you'll need about 2 cups of cherries, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and enough dough to make 8-10 empanadas.
How to Make Homemade Cherry Empanadas
Making Cherry Empanadas at home is easier than you might think. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- Make the dough by combining 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of cold butter in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add in 4-6 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together in a ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- While the dough is chilling, make the filling by combining 2 cups of pitted cherries, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft (about 10-15 minutes).
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into 8-10 circles (depending on the size of your empanadas).
- Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over and crimp the edges to seal.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and brush them with an egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
The History of Empanadas
The exact origins of Empanadas are unclear, but they're believed to have originated in Spain or Portugal and made their way to Latin America and the Philippines through colonization. Today, Empanadas are a popular snack or meal in many countries, with different regions having their own unique spins on the recipe. They can be sweet or savory, and filled with a variety of ingredients.
Why Cherry Empanadas are a Delicious Treat
Cherry Empanadas are a delicious treat for a few reasons. First of all, they're sweet and tangy, with a soft and flaky crust. They're also relatively easy to make at home, and are a great way to use up any leftover fruit you might have on hand. Another reason Cherry Empanadas are so tasty is that they can be customized in endless ways. You could try using different types of fruit (like peach or apple), or adding in some cinnamon or other spices to the filling. You could also experiment with different types of dough, like using puff pastry or a gluten-free flour blend.
The Perfect Occasions to Serve Cherry Empanadas
Cherry Empanadas are a versatile treat that can be served at a variety of occasions. Here are a few ideas:
- As a dessert at a dinner party or potluck
- As an after-school snack for kids
- As a picnic or camping treat
- As a gift or party favor (just package them up in cute little bags)
Cherry Empanadas vs. Other Sweet Treats
When it comes to sweet treats, Cherry Empanadas offer a few advantages over other options:
- They're lower in calories than many other desserts
- They offer some nutritional value
- They're portable and easy to eat on the go
How to Store Cherry Empanadas
If you have leftovers, Cherry Empanadas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You could also freeze them for longer storage (up to a few months). To reheat frozen Cherry Empanadas, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, then heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Serving Cherry Empanadas
Here are a few tips for serving Cherry Empanadas:
- Top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat
- Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack
- Serve them warm out of the oven for maximum flavor and texture
Cherry Empanada Variations to Try
If you're looking to mix things up, here are a few Cherry Empanada variations to try:
- Swap out the cherries for another fruit (like peach, raspberry, or blueberry)
- Use puff pastry instead of traditional dough for a flakier crust
- Add in some cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and cozy flavor
One bite of a freshly baked Cherry Empanada is like a little taste of heaven.
5 FAQs about Cherry Empanada:
1. What is a Cherry Empanada?
A Cherry Empanada is a pastry that has a filling made of sweet cherries. The dough is usually a type of shortcrust or puff pastry and is baked or deep-fried.
2. How many calories does a serving of Cherry Empanada contain?
A serving of Cherry Empanada typically contains 190 calories.
3. Is Cherry Empanada healthy?
Cherry Empanada is a sweet treat and should be consumed in moderation. It is not considered a healthy food due to its high sugar and calorie content.
4. How can I make Cherry Empanada at home?
You can make Cherry Empanada at home by preparing the filling using sweet cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Then, roll out some shortcrust pastry dough and cut it into circles. Spoon some cherry filling onto each circle, fold the dough over and seal the edges. Finally, bake the empanadas in the oven until they are golden brown.
5. Can I use other types of fruit besides cherries in Empanadas?
Yes, you can use other types of fruit to make Empanadas. Some popular options include apples, strawberries, peaches, and blueberries.