Divine Delight: Indulgent Empanadas Stuffed with Chocolate

Dive into a world of sweetness and delight with these heavenly Empanadas Stuffed with Chocolate. A perfect combination of flaky pastry and rich, gooey chocolate filling, these empanadas are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or special indulgence, these chocolate-filled pastries are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s as delicious as it is comforting!

Introduction:

Empanadas are a beloved pastry in many cultures, known for their versatility and delicious fillings. In this recipe, we’re taking the classic empanada to new heights by stuffing it with luscious chocolate filling. The combination of tender pastry and melted chocolate creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet snack or surprising your loved ones with a special dessert, these chocolate-filled empanadas are sure to bring joy to any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 120ml milk
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons of sugar
• 300 g flour
• 10g baking powder
• Hazelnut spread, as needed

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vegetable oil, and sugar until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a little more milk as needed.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles from the dough, re-rolling scraps as needed.

Step 3: Fill the Empanadas

1. Place a small spoonful of hazelnut spread in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal.
3. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas to ensure they are tightly sealed.

Step 4: Bake the Empanadas

1. Place the filled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Brush the tops of the empanadas with a little beaten egg for a shiny finish, if desired.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the baked empanadas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious chocolate-filled goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Filling Options: While hazelnut spread is a classic filling for chocolate empanadas, feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can use other types of chocolate spread, fruit preserves, or even dulce de leche for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make gluten-free empanadas, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Deep-Fried Option: For a crispier texture, you can deep-fry the empanadas instead of baking them. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F) and fry the empanadas until golden brown and cooked through.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy this recipe:

• Almond Flour Dough: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content of the dough.
• Sugar-Free Filling: Use a sugar-free chocolate hazelnut spread or make your own keto-friendly chocolate filling using unsweetened chocolate and a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
• Portion Control: Keep an eye on portion sizes to ensure that you’re staying within your daily carb limits while indulging in these chocolate-filled treats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and filling the empanadas. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for longer storage and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Q: Can I freeze the baked empanadas? A: Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the empanadas in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I make mini empanadas instead of large ones? A: Yes, you can adjust the size of the empanadas to your liking. Simply use a smaller cookie cutter or glass to cut out the dough circles and reduce the amount of filling accordingly. Mini empanadas make great bite-sized treats for parties or gatherings.

Q: Can I use a different type of filling? A: Absolutely! While hazelnut spread is a delicious choice for filling empanadas, you can experiment with other fillings such as Nutella, peanut butter, or even caramel for a variety of flavors.

Empanadas Stuffed with Chocolate are a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With their flaky pastry and gooey chocolate filling, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or special occasion treat, these chocolate-filled pastries are guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So why wait? Treat yourself to a batch of homemade empanadas and savor the irresistible combination of pastry and chocolate goodness!