Easy Strawberry Empanadas Recipe (Only 3 Ingredients!)

These strawberry empanadas are one of my most-requested treats, and it’s easy to see why: they only take 3 ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes using store-bought pie crust — no special empanada dough required.

I’ve been making this recipe for years because it’s foolproof. Sweet, jammy strawberries get tucked into a flaky golden crust, then rolled in sugar while still warm for that classic bakery-style finish. They’re just as good warm out of the oven as they are room temperature, which makes them perfect for tea parties, bridal or baby showers, potlucks, or a quick after-school treat.

If you love a handheld dessert, these are a fun twist on a classic hand pie — sweet, portable, and made for sharing.Super easy to make and delicious! Check out my recipe below and enjoy!

What are Empanadas?

Empanadas are a stuffed pastry, kind of like a little hand pie. I usually make empanadas as appetizers, but once in awhile these dessert empanadas make a great little dessert. When they are freshly baked, they are rolled in sugar for a tasty dessert or lunch box treat.

How to Make Strawberry Empanadas

Step 1 – Fruit empanadas are so easy to make with a pre-made pie crust. Honestly, you don’t need special empanada dough to make these delicious handheld desserts!

Step 2 – You just prepare the fruit.

Step 3 – Then you fill each pastry with fruit,

Fold over the pastry and seal.

Then bake and top with sugar.

They are simply delicious and you can add cream or ice cream if you wish!

Recipe FAQs

How many empanadas does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 10-12 strawberry empanadas, depending on the size of the circles you cut. (Flagging: your recipe card currently lists “8 servings” — worth updating to match, and recalculating the per-serving nutrition info once you confirm the count.)

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw and drain them well first — frozen strawberries release extra liquid as they cook, so simmer the filling a few minutes longer to let it thicken before filling the dough.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Don’t overfill each circle (a scant tablespoon is plenty), and make sure the edges are completely sealed with a fork before baking. A thin egg wash brushed on the edges before folding also helps them hold together.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them unbaked for up to a day, or bake them ahead and store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze strawberry empanadas?
Yes, both baked and unbaked freeze well. Freeze unbaked empanadas in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months — bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. Baked empanadas can be frozen and reheated in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes, though this recipe is written for baking. To fry, heat oil to 350°F and fry until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels before rolling in sugar.

More Strawberry Recipes

• Strawberry Goat cheese Bruschetta – this beautiful dish can be an appetizer, tea party food, or dessert.
• Strawberry Jello Pie – A vintage recipe that is easy and tasty as ever.
• Strawberry Banana Smoothie – A wonderful breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Strawberry Spinach Salad – A lovely spring salad with a tasty balsamic dressing.
• Strawberry Pretzel Dip – An easy fruit dip recipe that is perfect for the spring.
• Best Strawberry Poke Cake – Super easy and always a hit. It is my potluck go to!

Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe!!

Strawberry Empanadas Recipe

 

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