Name: Cheese Empanadas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 cup local butter, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup (175 mL) local milk at room temperature; 1 ½ cups shredded local mozzarella; ¾ cup crumbled local feta; Canola or vegetable oil for frying

Cheese Empanadas

Pillowy, soft fried dough filled with local cheese makes these Fried Cheese Empanadas, the perfect appetizer or snack to enjoy any time of day. They're easy to make, and you can change up the cheeses to use your favourite local Ontario cheese for a wide combination of flavours - the possibilities are endless!

PREP15 min

Cooking20 min

Ready in35 min

Ingredients

2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 cup local butter, cold and cubed
3/4 cup (175 mL) local milk at room temperature
1 ½ cups shredded local mozzarella
¾ cup crumbled local feta
Canola or vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step
In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a fork or your fingertips, work in the cold butter until a crumbly mixture forms. Stir in the milk until a ragged dough forms.
Step
Turn the dough onto a floured work surface and knead until smooth. Cover with a clean tea towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
Step
In a bowl, combine the mozzarella and feta.
Step
Cut the dough into 16 pieces. Roll out one piece at a time into a 4-inch circle. Place about 1½–2 tbsp of the cheese mixture in the centre of the dough. Lightly brush the edge with water, fold over to create a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges firmly to seal. Press the edges with a fork to help prevent the filling from leaking. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step
Heat 3–4 inches of oil in a deep, wide saucepan to 350°F.
Step
Fry a few empanadas at a time for about 3 minutes, turning halfway through, until both sides are golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pot.
Step
Transfer with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Notes

Baked or Air Fryer Option
For a lighter version, brush both sides of the sealed empanadas with melted local butter.

To bake: Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

To air fry: Arrange in a single layer and air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Work in batches as needed.

Cheese Empanadas