Guava and Cheese Empanadas

Flaky, golden air-fried pastries filled with luscious guava paste and creamy cheese—a delightful sweet treat perfect for dessert or snacking. This Latin American-inspired recipe is both easy to prepare and ready in just 32 minutes.

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These empanadas are air-fried to achieve a crisp, golden-brown texture without the need for deep frying. The combination of guava paste and cream cheese is a classic pairing that creates a gooey, flavorful center in every bite.

Ingredients

• Dough: 1 package (400 g) refrigerated pie dough or empanada dough (enough for 10 rounds)
• Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten
• Filling: 120 g (4 oz) guava paste, cut into 10 equal strips
• Filling: 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

When preparing the empanadas, ensure you press the edges firmly with a fork to prevent the guava and cheese from leaking. Always place them in a single layer in the air fryer to ensure even browning.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling or sprinkle powdered sugar on top after frying. If you cannot find guava paste, you can substitute it with thick fruit preserves.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these empanadas warm to enjoy the melted filling at its best. Leftovers can be stored and easily reheated in the air fryer to maintain their signature flaky crunch.

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Each of these delicious empanadas contains 190 calories, 8 g of fat, 26 g of carbohydrates, and 3 g of protein. Enjoy this simple yet decadent Latin American treat as a special dessert or snack.

Questions & Answers

→ What does guava and cheese taste like together?

The combination creates a perfect balance of sweet and creamy. The tropical fruit paste provides intense sweetness with floral notes, while the cream cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast that cuts through the sugar. This classic Latin American pairing is beloved for its addictive sweet-savory profile.

→ Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Absolutely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. The texture will be slightly different—baked versions are tender while air-fried ones are crispier on the outside. Both methods deliver delicious results.

→ Where can I find guava paste?

Look for guava paste (also called pasta de guayaba) in the international or Latin American aisle of most supermarkets. It's also available at specialty markets and online. The paste comes in blocks or tins and has a thick, jelly-like texture perfect for melting.

→ What cheese works best in empanadas?

Cream cheese is traditional and provides excellent meltability. For variations, try queso fresco for a crumbly texture, mozzarella for extra stretch, or a Mexican cheese blend. Even mild cheddar works if you prefer a sharper flavor profile.

→ How do I store and reheat leftover empanadas?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 2 months and cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

→ Why do my empanadas open during cooking?

This usually happens if edges aren't sealed properly. Press firmly with a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they're completely closed. Avoid overfilling—too much filling creates pressure that pushes seams apart. Brushing the edges with water or beaten egg before sealing helps them stick together better.