Banana Hazelnut Empanadas
Who can resist the delightful combination of sweet bananas and nutty hazelnuts wrapped in a warm, flaky pastry? These Banana Hazelnut Empanadas are the perfect treat for any time of day, whether you enjoy them as a breakfast pastry, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert. The golden, crispy crust gives way to a luscious filling that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, chopped hazelnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean, floured surface. Using a round cookie cutter or a small plate as a guide, cut out circles from the pie crusts. You should get about 8 circles in total.
4. Place a spoonful of the banana-hazelnut filling in the center of each pie crust circle. Be careful not to overfill to avoid spillage during baking.
5. Fold the circles in half to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the empanadas to seal them shut. Repeat this process for each empanada.
6. Transfer the sealed empanadas to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish when baked.
7. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
These Banana Hazelnut Empanadas are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. The contrast of the crispy crust with the soft, fragrant filling is a true delight for the senses. Serve them with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Whether you make them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a craving, these empanadas are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Enjoy every bite of these homemade delights!
