Save Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory with these Guava and Cheese Empanadas. These flaky, golden air-fried pastries are filled with luscious guava paste and creamy cheese, making them a delightful treat for dessert or a quick snack. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, they are an easy way to bring Latin American flavors into your kitchen.
Save These empanadas are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party or looking for a cozy evening snack, the combination of melted cream cheese and sweet fruit paste wrapped in a buttery dough is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 package (400 g) refrigerated pie dough or empanada dough (enough for 10 rounds)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Filling: 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 your empanadas stay sealed, make sure to press the edges firmly with a fork. If you are using store-bought dough, check the labels for any specific allergen information, as these typically contain wheat, egg, and milk.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling before folding. If guava paste is hard to find at your local market, you can substitute it with thick fruit preserves. Leftovers can be easily reheated in the air fryer to restore their crispness.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these empanadas warm for the best experience. For an elegant touch, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top after they have finished frying. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or as a standalone dessert.
Save Enjoy these warm, sweet empanadas as a perfect conclusion to your meal. The contrast between the crispy shell and the gooey center makes every bite a treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes these empanadas special?
The combination of sweet guava paste and creamy cheese creates a classic Latin American flavor profile. The air fryer gives them a perfectly crispy, golden exterior without deep frying.
- → Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
- → Where can I find guava paste?
Guava paste is available in Latin markets, international grocery stores, or the ethnic aisle of many supermarkets. You can also substitute with thick fruit preserves like fig or apricot.
- → How should I serve these?
These are best served warm. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. They're delicious on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- → Can I freeze uncooked empanadas?
Yes, assemble the empanadas and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Air fry frozen empanadas for 14-16 minutes, no need to thaw.
- → What other cheeses work well?
Cream cheese is traditional, but you can also use mild white cheese like queso fresco, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for different flavor variations.