During the festive season in Spain, one delightful treat that brings joy to many homes is the Empanadillas De Nuez, also known as Nut Filled Pastries. These delicious pastries are a delightful combination of flaky dough and a sweet, nutty filling that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of cocoa or shared with loved ones during holiday gatherings, Empanadillas De Nuez is a true embodiment of warmth and coziness. So, let’s dive into the recipe and spread some festive cheer with these delightful Spanish Christmas treats!
**Title: Empanadillas De Nuez Nut Filled Pastries**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup ground walnuts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
– Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– Slowly add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Nut Filling:**
– In a separate bowl, mix together the ground walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Assemble the Empanadillas:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a small plate to cut out circles of dough.
4. **Fill and Seal the Pastries:**
– Place a spoonful of the nut filling in the center of each dough circle.
– Brush the edges of the dough with beaten egg, then fold the dough in half to encase the filling. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pastries.
5. **Bake the Empanadillas:**
– Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet.
– Brush the tops of the pastries with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and fragrant.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once baked, remove the Empanadillas De Nuez from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
– Dust the pastries with powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch.
– Serve these warm, flaky treats with a cup of your favorite hot beverage or pack them in a beautiful tin to gift to loved ones during the holiday season.
**These Empanadillas De Nuez Nut Filled Pastries are a delightful addition to any Christmas celebration, bringing a touch of Spanish warmth and flavor to your festive table. Enjoy the process of making these pastries as much as you’ll enjoy the delicious outcome. Happy baking and happy holidays!**
