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Tres Leches Cuban Empanadas

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Tres Leches Cuban Empanadas
Golden-brown empanadas filled with creamy tres leches custard, a delightful twist on Cuban pastry.

Indulge in an innovative take on two beloved Cuban culinary traditions with our Tres Leches Cuban Empanadas. These delectable pastries blend the rich, milky sweetness of tres leches cake into a flaky empanada crust, offering a delightful surprise with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or as a special treat, these empanadas are sure to impress anyone who enjoys the vibrant flavors of Cuba.

“Tres Leches Empanadas: A harmonious blend of Cuban sweetness and pastry craftsmanship.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12 empanadas
  • Calories: 280kcal per piece

Ingredients

Empanada Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable shortening, chilled and cubed
  • 3/4 cup cold water
Tres Leches Filling:
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add chilled vegetable shortening and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. Form the Dough: Gradually add cold water while stirring with a fork until dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Make Tres Leches Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lime juice. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the dough.

  4. Roll Out Dough and Assemble Empanadas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface into thin circles about 5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of tres leches filling in the center of each circle, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and seal edges with a fork or by crimping.

  5. Egg Wash and Bake: Brush empanadas with beaten egg for a golden finish. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:

  • Serving: 1 empanada
  • Calories: 280kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 15g

Serve these Tres Leches Cuban Empanadas warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether enjoyed as part of a dessert spread or as a unique snack, they offer the comforting flavors and textures that make them a delightful treat. Enjoy this fusion of Cuban pastry traditions!

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