As the leaves begin to turn and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to bring a little creativity into your kitchen. Enter my Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas—adorable savory pockets that take Halloween spirit to delicious new heights! I had a blast experimenting with this recipe, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin and black beans, all wrapped in a flaky pie crust that’s easy to work with.
Picture this: a warm, golden-brown empanada, its crust artfully designed with the classic Jack-o’-Lantern face, delighting both kids and adults at your festive gatherings. The moment I pulled a batch out of the oven, their aromatic scent filled the air, evoking memories of cozy autumn evenings. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking for a fun meal to surprise your family, these empanadas deliver festive flavor and ease in one delightful package. So roll up your sleeves and let’s create something spooktacular together!
Why Are Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas So Irresistible?
Scream-worthy presentation: These playful pockets are not just delicious; their adorable Jack-o’-Lantern faces will steal the show at any Halloween celebration.
Flavorful goodness: The combination of pumpkin and black beans provides a delightful balance of sweetness and heartiness, making every bite a treat.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a festive dish ready in no time, perfect for busy home cooks.
Customizable fun: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy them!
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a spooky gathering or a cozy family dinner, these empanadas are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas Ingredients
• Get ready to create spooky savory pockets!
For the Filling
- Canola Oil – Adds moisture and aids in cooking the filling; substitute with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Frozen Corn – Provides sweetness and texture; fresh corn can be used if available.
- Onion – Enhances flavor; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- Sweet Red Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with any bell pepper.
- Garlic Cloves – Provides aromatic flavor; use garlic powder as a substitute if necessary.
- Canned Pumpkin (15 oz) – The base for the filling offering moisture and a unique taste; ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling.
- Black Beans – Adds protein and texture; can substitute with refried beans for a smoother filling.
- Chili Powder – Adds spiciness and depth; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- Ground Cumin – Adds a smoky flavor; omit if unavailable or consider using taco seasoning instead.
- Dried Oregano – Provides herbal notes; substitute with Italian seasoning if preferred.
For the Crust
- Refrigerated Pie Crust (2 packages, 14.1 oz each) – The base for empanadas, providing a flaky texture; homemade crust can be used if desired.
- Egg (1 large) – Used for the egg wash to achieve a golden crust; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Water (1 tbsp) – Mixed with egg for a beautiful egg wash.
These Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas are bound to bring joy with their delicious filling and fun design, making them a delightful treat for Halloween!
How to Make Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked empanada with a golden-brown crust.
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Prepare Filling: In a skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Sauté the corn, onion, and sweet red pepper for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Mix in the pumpkin, black beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt, heating through before letting it cool slightly.
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Prepare Crust: On a floured surface, roll out the pie crust and cut out 60 pumpkin shapes using a 3-inch cookie cutter. This forms the fun exterior of your empanadas.
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Assemble Empanadas: Place half of the cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets. On each, top with 1 tablespoon of the savory filling. Cut jack-o’-lantern face shapes into the remaining cutouts and place them over the filled ones, sealing the edges firmly with a fork to secure the filling.
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Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix together the egg and water, then brush this mixture over the empanadas for that beautiful golden finish.
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Bake: Bake your empanadas in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and calling your name.
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Cool: Once baked, transfer the empanadas to wire racks to cool before serving. Let that delicious aroma fill the room!
Optional: Serve with salsa or guacamole for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas are ideal for meal prep, making your Halloween gatherings effortless! You can prepare the filling (pumpkin, black beans, and spices) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor. Additionally, you can cut the pie crust shapes ahead of time and freeze them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, just thaw the crust, assemble the empanadas with the filling, apply the egg wash, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll delight your family with fresh, warm empanadas without spending hours in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas
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Cool the Filling: Allow the filling to cool down before assembling to prevent soggy crusts that don’t hold together well.
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Seal Edges Well: Press the edges firmly to ensure the empanadas are sealed properly, preventing any filling from leaking out during baking.
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Customize the Spice: Feel free to adjust the chili powder according to your taste; this will help in tailoring the flavor profile of your Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and spices can elevate your dish, providing fresher flavors compared to frozen or dried alternatives.
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Experiment with Shapes: Get creative with the pumpkin cutouts; different designs can make your empanadas even more festive for Halloween!
Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect Halloween treat!
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Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin with mashed sweet potato for a sweeter, cozy flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with a flax egg for a delightful vegan-friendly version. Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit!
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Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, into the filling for a creamy, savory surprise.
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Meat Option: Swap black beans for ground turkey, beef, or chicken for a heartier empanada. Cook the meat with spices for added flavor before mixing.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling to elevate the spice level for those who love heat.
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Herbed Up: Fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, add freshness. Toss them into the filling right before assembling for an aromatic boost.
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Pineapple Surprise: For a sweet and savory twist, incorporate diced pineapple into the filling alongside the beans—it’s a tropical treat!
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Mini-Mum Version: Make bite-sized versions using smaller cookie cutters for a fun appetizer platter that’s perfect for kids (and adults) at parties.
Let’s get creative in the kitchen and add your personal touch to these festive Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas!
Storage Tips for Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas
Room Temperature: Store Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours after baking to keep them fresh before serving.
Fridge: Keep any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispier texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen empanadas directly in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas?
Imagine a gathering filled with laughter, festive decorations, and the tempting aroma of warm empanadas filling the air.
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Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a flavorful kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling, brightening up every bite.
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Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip brings a cool, refreshing element that complements the spiced empanadas, creating a perfect balance.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: The sweet and savory flavors, along with a hint of lime, can elevate the overall meal, making it bright and cheerful.
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Autumn Salad: Roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and mixed greens tossed in a maple vinaigrette resonate with the seasonal spirit, enhancing the warmth of your empanadas.
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Cheesy Quesadillas: Gooey cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla offers a comforting texture that pairs well with the savory filling of the empanadas.
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Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced cider can bring a cozy touch to your meal. Its sweet and spicy notes harmonize perfectly with the flavors of Halloween.
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Pumpkin Pie Brownies: For dessert, these fudgy treats offer a delightful ending to your festive meal, echoing the pumpkin flavor in the empanadas but with a sweet twist.
Each pairing wonderfully complements the playful nature and hearty flavors of your Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas, turning a simple meal into an unforgettable Halloween celebration.
Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use canned pumpkin puree. Ensure you choose pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that may alter the taste of your empanadas.
How should I store leftover Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas?
Very! After they’ve cooled, store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that delicious crispy texture.
Can I freeze Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
What if the empanada crust is too dry?
The best way to avoid a dry crust is to make sure your dough is rolled out properly without excessive flour. If the dough feels dry as you’re working with it, you can incorporate a tiny bit of water, just enough to moisten it. Additionally, ensuring your filling is cool before sealing will help achieve a flaky texture.
Are Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, indeed! This recipe features plant-based ingredients like pumpkin and black beans, making it a great choice for vegetarians. Just substitute the egg wash with a flax egg to make it vegan. Your Halloween celebration will cater to everyone’s diet!
How can I customize the filling for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily modify the filling to suit dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pie crust or make your own. If you’re avoiding beans, consider using sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a delicious alternative. You can also adjust spices to be milder for children or those sensitive to heat.
Delicious Jack-o’-Lantern Empanadas to Celebrate Halloween
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Sauté the corn, onion, and sweet red pepper for 2-3 minutes until tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Mix in the pumpkin, black beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt, heating through before letting it cool slightly.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pie crust and cut out 60 pumpkin shapes with a 3-inch cookie cutter.
- Place half of the cutouts on parchment-lined baking sheets. Top each with 1 tablespoon of the savory filling. Cut jack-o'-lantern faces in the remaining cutouts and place them on the filled ones, sealing the edges with a fork.
- In a small bowl, mix the egg and water, then brush over the empanadas.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer to wire racks to cool before serving.