Guava and Cheese Empanadas

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Latin America with these delightful Guava and Cheese Empanadas. These golden, air-fried pastries offer a perfect contrast between a flaky crust and a molten heart of sweet guava paste paired with creamy cheese. Whether you are looking for a quick dessert or a unique sweet snack, these empanadas are easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

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This recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. By using an air fryer, you achieve that coveted golden-brown finish while keeping the kitchen cool. It is an excellent choice for a vegetarian-friendly treat that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 package (400 g) refrigerated pie dough or empanada dough (enough for 10 rounds)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 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 the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

Roll out the dough and cut it into 10 circles, approximately 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter.

Step 3

Place one strip of guava paste and one piece of cream cheese in the center of each dough circle.

Step 4

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges with a fork to create a tight seal.

Step 5

Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to ensure a beautiful golden-brown finish.

Step 6

Arrange the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 7

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, or until the pastries are golden and crisp.

Step 8

Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To prevent the filling from leaking, ensure you press the fork firmly into the edges of the dough. For those with dietary concerns, always check the labels of pre-made dough for allergens such as wheat, egg, or milk. Each empanada contains approximately 190 calories, making them a manageable portioned treat.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If guava paste is unavailable, you can substitute it with a thick fruit preserve. For an extra layer of warmth, consider adding a tiny pinch of cinnamon to the filling before sealing the dough. If you prefer a more traditional dough, any high-quality refrigerated pie crust works perfectly as a base.

Serviervorschläge

These empanadas are best served warm while the cheese is still soft. For a bakery-style presentation, lightly dust the finished pastries with powdered sugar. If you have leftovers, they can be easily reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their original crispiness.

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With their crispy exterior and sweet, creamy interior, these Guava and Cheese Empanadas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Simple to make and elegant to serve, they bring a taste of Latin American tradition right to your table.

Recipe FAQ

→ What does guava and cheese taste like together?

The combination creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Guava paste offers tropical fruity sweetness with a thick, jam-like texture, while cream cheese provides rich, tangy creaminess that cuts through the sweetness. The contrast is reminiscent of cheesecake meets fruit preserve.

→ Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Brush with egg wash before baking for the same glossy finish. The texture will be slightly softer than air-fried but equally delicious.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cream cheese is traditional and provides the best creamy texture. Queso fresco, queso crema, or mild cheddar also work well. Avoid very salty cheeses as they'll overpower the delicate guava flavor.

→ Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely. A simple flour, butter, salt, and water dough works beautifully. For authentic Latin flavor, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough. Chill before rolling for easier handling.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness, or use a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for guava paste?

Thick fruit preserves like membrillo (quince paste), fig paste, or apricot preserves work well. For closest flavor and texture, use thickened mango or passion fruit jam reduced on the stove until very thick.