Decadent Banana Nutella Empanadas
Indulge in these delightful Decadent Banana Nutella Empanadas, a perfect fusion of savory pastry and luxurious chocolate hazelnut spread. This recipe combines ripe bananas and rich Nutella, enveloped in a flaky pastry shell. Ideal for dessert lovers, these empanadas are versatile and can be served warm with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Share these sweet treats with friends and family, and enjoy the bliss of comforting flavors in every bite.
N/A
Servings
175
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Large ripe banana
1 (peeled and cut into 1/4-inch cubes)
Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread
1 cup
Refrigerated 9-inch pie shells
2 (or use homemade pie dough if preferred)
Water
2 tablespoons (for sealing the dough)
Granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (for sprinkling on top)
Cinnamon ice cream
optional (for serving)
Whipped cream
optional (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the peeled and diced banana with Nutella until well mixed; the mixture will thicken as the banana breaks down. Set aside.
2
Divide the refrigerated pie dough into two equal halves. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a 14 x 8-inch rectangle, ensuring the dough is about 1/4-inch thick.
3
Use either a square or round 3-inch cookie cutter to cut out 8 equal pieces from each half of the dough, resulting in 16 total pieces.
4
On each dough cutout, place approximately 1 heaping teaspoon of the Nutella-banana mixture in the center. Be careful not to overfill.
5
Gently brush the outer edge of the dough with water to help seal. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges together to seal tightly.
6
Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they're well sealed.
7
Lightly brush the top of each empanada with water and sprinkle with granulated sugar for added sweetness and texture. Place the empanadas on parchment paper or foil-lined baking sheets and freeze for at least 15 minutes.
8
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the empanadas have chilled, bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
9
Remove from the oven and serve warm, optionally accompanied by a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
20g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Banana Nutella Empanadas?
They are a delightful dessert fusion of flaky pastry shells filled with a luxurious mixture of ripe bananas and chocolate hazelnut spread.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include a large ripe banana, Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread, refrigerated 9-inch pie shells, water, and granulated sugar.
How many empanadas does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 16 total empanadas.
Can I use homemade pie dough instead of refrigerated shells?
Yes, you can use homemade pie dough if preferred as a substitute for the refrigerated 9-inch pie shells.
How should the banana be prepared for the filling?
The banana should be peeled and cut into small 1/4-inch cubes.
How do I make the banana and Nutella filling?
In a small bowl, combine the diced banana with Nutella until well mixed; the mixture will thicken as the banana breaks down.
How thick should I roll out the pie dough?
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is approximately 1/4-inch thick.
What size cookie cutter is recommended for the dough?
A square or round 3-inch cookie cutter is recommended to cut out the 16 dough pieces.
How much filling should I put in each empanada?
Place approximately 1 heaping teaspoon of the Nutella-banana mixture in the center of each dough cutout.
What is the best way to seal the empanadas?
Brush the outer edge of the dough with water, fold it over into a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal.
How do I add a decorative touch to the edges?
Use a fork to crimp the edges, which ensures they are well sealed and adds a decorative pattern.
What should I do before baking to add sweetness and texture?
Lightly brush the top of each empanada with water and sprinkle them with granulated sugar.
Is freezing the empanadas necessary before baking?
Yes, you should freeze the empanadas on baking sheets for at least 15 minutes before putting them in the oven.
What is the required oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
How long do the empanadas need to bake?
Bake them for about 20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
What are some serving suggestions for these empanadas?
They are best served warm, optionally accompanied by a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How many calories are in one empanada?
Each empanada contains approximately 175 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 10g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dessert?
There are 20g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content of these empanadas?
Each empanada provides approximately 1.5g of protein.
Is Nutella the only spread I can use?
While the recipe specifies Nutella, any chocolate hazelnut spread can be used.
What type of banana works best for this recipe?
A large ripe banana is best because it is sweet and breaks down easily to thicken the filling.
Why do I brush the edges with water?
The water acts as a glue to help the pastry edges stick together and stay sealed during baking.
Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and freeze them, then bake them fresh when you are ready to serve.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include dessert, empanadas, banana, nutella, chocolate, treats, and party snacks.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Be careful not to overfill the dough and ensure the edges are tightly crimped with a fork.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is categorized under easy desserts and uses simple preparation techniques.
What texture should the dough have after baking?
The dough should be puffed, golden brown, and flaky.
Should the banana be mashed?
No, the banana should be diced into cubes; it will naturally break down and thicken as you mix it with the Nutella.
Are these empanadas suitable for a crowd?
Yes, they make 16 individual servings, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser for parties and family gatherings.