Name: Cozy Pumpkin Sage Empanadas with Sweet-Spicy Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 pack Refrigerated pie dough (or frozen empanada discs); 1 cup Pumpkin purée (not pie filling); 1 large Onion (opt for yellow or sweet onions); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for sautéing); 2 tablespoons Fresh sage (or dried); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 Egg (beaten with water or milk); 1/4 cup Pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon Chili paste (Sriracha, Sambal Oelek, or similar); 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar

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As I stood by the stove, the aroma of caramelized onions wafted through my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy embrace that felt unmistakably like autumn. It’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of Pumpkin Sage Empanadas, where flaky pastry meets a savory-sweet filling of roasted pumpkin, sautéed onions, and fragrant sage. These delightful little pockets come alive with a tantalizing sweet-spicy maple chili dipping sauce that magically pairs with the comforting flavors inside. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, but they’re also quick enough to prepare for a comforting solo snack as you sip on your favorite cider. Ready to bring a taste of fall to your table? Let’s dive into this delicious autumn-inspired recipe!

Why are Pumpkin Sage Empanadas irresistible?

Cozy, Seasonal Flavors: These empanadas capture the essence of autumn with every bite, highlighting the warmth of roasted pumpkin, caramelized onions, and sage.

Quick and Easy: With the help of refrigerated pie dough, this recipe simplifies your cooking process, making it accessible even for busy weeknights.

Unique Dipping Sauce: The sweet-spicy maple chili dipping sauce offers a delightful contrast, enhancing the savory filling and adding a creative twist that everyone will love!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these empanadas are versatile and sure to impress.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them as finger food at parties or enjoy them as a comforting snack, and watch them disappear in no time!

Pumpkin Sage Empanadas Ingredients

For the Dough
• Refrigerated pie dough (or frozen empanada discs) – The perfect flaky base for your empanadas; you can also try homemade dough for an extra touch!

For the Filling
• Pumpkin purée (not pie filling) – Adds the cozy sweetness; feel free to use canned or homemade for convenience.
• Large onion – Provides a rich depth of flavor when caramelized; opt for yellow or sweet onions for best results.
• Olive oil – Ideal for sautéing onions; butter or another vegetable oil also works well.
• Fresh sage (or dried) – Enhances the autumnal flavor; can substitute thyme or rosemary if sage isn’t on hand.
• Salt & pepper – Essential seasonings that you should adjust to suit your taste.

For the Egg Wash
• Egg (beaten with water or milk) – Gives the pastry a lovely golden finish; a plant-based milk can be a vegan alternative.

For the Dipping Sauce
• Pure maple syrup – Provides sweetness that balances the flavors; feel free to substitute with honey or agave if preferred.
• Chili paste (Sriracha, Sambal Oelek, or similar) – Adds a zesty kick; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• Apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness of the sauce; white vinegar or lemon juice could also be used in a pinch.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s bring these Pumpkin Sage Empanadas to life with a dash of love and creativity!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sage Empanadas

Step 1: Caramelize Onions
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add 1 large sliced onion with a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally for 15-20 minutes until the onions are golden brown and sweetly fragrant. This step enhances the flavor base for your Pumpkin Sage Empanadas, creating that comforting autumn aroma.

Step 2: Make the Filling
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in 1 cup of pumpkin purée, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh sage, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat until heated through and fully combined. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely to prevent a soggy pastry later.

Step 3: Prep the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the dough. If using refrigerated pie dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it measures about ⅛-inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out 4-5 inch circles. This flaky crust will encase the delicious filling in your Pumpkin Sage Empanadas.

Step 4: Fill & Seal
Take a dough circle and place about 1.5-2 tablespoons of the cooled pumpkin filling off-center on each circle. Moisten the edge with a little water, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork or twist to seal securely, avoiding overfilling to prevent leaks during baking.

Step 5: Egg Wash
Prepare an egg wash by beating 1 egg with a splash of water or milk. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of your sealed empanadas, ensuring an enticing golden color during baking. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each empanada a bit of space to puff up nicely.

Step 6: Bake
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Pumpkin Sage Empanadas for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them, rotating the pan halfway through for even baking, until they’re golden brown and flaky. The delightful smell will fill your kitchen, signaling that they are almost ready!

Step 7: Mix Sauce
While the empanadas bake, whisk together ¼ cup of pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of chili paste, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—this sweet-spicy dipping sauce perfectly complements the savory pumpkin filling of your empanadas.

Step 8: Serve
Once baked and golden, remove your Pumpkin Sage Empanadas from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving them warm alongside the sweet-spicy dipping sauce. These delectable pockets are perfect for gatherings or as a cozy snack to savor while relishing the flavors of the season.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sage Empanadas

Fridge: Keep any leftover Pumpkin Sage Empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves their flaky texture and delightful flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the empanadas, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.

Make Ahead: You can assemble the empanadas unbaked and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking, ensuring fresh results when you’re ready to cook!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sage Empanadas

As you savor the warmth of your freshly baked empanadas, imagine pairing them with delightful sides that elevate your autumn meal experience.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich filling, balancing flavors and textures beautifully. The crunch of fresh veggies contrasts perfectly with the flaky pastry.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs, roasted carrots, and sweet potatoes echo the cozy flavors of fall, adding a hearty touch to your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Buttery potatoes lend a velvety texture to your plate, serving as a satisfying counterpart to the savory and sweet notes of the empanadas.
Apple Cider: The sweet-spicy notes of this seasonal favorite pair harmoniously with the flavors in the dipping sauce, creating a festive atmosphere for your meal.
Pumpkin Soup: An earthy, spiced soup accentuates the pumpkin flavor, tying the meal together and keeping it warm and inviting.
Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized with balsamic and garlic, these tender sprouts add a satisfying crunch, celebrating autumn produce and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Airy Puff Pastry Twists: These flaky bites, seasoned with Parmesan and herbs, create a delightful additional texture and flavor that’s sure to impress your guests.
Warm Spiced Cider Doughnuts: For a sweet finish, these doughnuts echo the same warm spices found in your empanadas, making them a fitting dessert choice that keeps the cozy vibe going.

These pairings will invite the spirit of fall into your meal, ensuring every bite celebrates the season’s embrace!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Sage Empanadas

Cool Filling: Allow the filling to cool completely before adding it to the dough. This prevents soggy pastry and maintains a pleasant texture.
Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill your empanadas. Aim for 1.5-2 tablespoons of filling to avoid leaks during baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the empanadas while baking. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for a golden color at around 18 minutes.
Make Ahead: If you plan to prepare these pumpkin sage empanadas ahead of time, assemble them unbaked and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
Get Creative with Dipping Sauce: Feel free to experiment by adding different spices like garlic or ginger to the sweet-spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Pumpkin Sage Empanadas Variations

Let your creativity shine and personalize these empanadas with exciting twists that elevate their deliciousness!

Meat-Lover’s Twist: Add cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken to the filling for a heartier bite. The savory meat pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese like mozzarella or aged cheddar into the filling for a gooey, melty inside. This addition brings a rich creaminess that complements the spices perfectly.
Herb Harmony: Swap sage for fresh thyme or basil for a different aromatic profile. This subtle change transforms the flavor while keeping that cozy autumn essence.
Heat It Up: Experiment with the chili paste by adding cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier dipping sauce. Adjust this to your preferred heat level for a delightful kick!
Sweet Surprise: Stir in caramelized apples or pears into the filling for a sweet-fruity twist. This fruity addition introduces a contrasting flavor that beautifully balances the savory pumpkin.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts into the filling for a delicious texture. This extra crunch enhances the flavors and gives a lovely nutty profile.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace the egg wash with plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version. You can also experiment with plant-based sausages in the filling for a hearty alternative.
Saucy Creativity: Enhance the dipping sauce by adding minced garlic or fresh ginger for a zesty twist. It adds more depth and complexity to this already flavorful condiment.

For more inspiration on creative tweaks, you might enjoy trying out some easy substitutes for standard ingredients to keep your cooking interesting! Plus, pairing your empanadas with a light green salad can make them a complete meal, perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Sage Empanadas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe to caramelize the onions and mix in the pumpkin purée and seasonings, then cool the filling completely to prevent sogginess. Once assembled, place the uncooked empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake them straight from the fridge; they’ll turn out just as delicious! This makes busy weeknights much easier, giving you the comfort of a homemade meal with minimal effort.

Pumpkin Sage Empanadas Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin for my empanadas?
Absolutely! Look for small, sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins for the best flavor and sweetness in your empanadas. These types are less watery compared to larger carving pumpkins and will provide a creamy texture. If you opt for canned pumpkin purée, ensure it is 100% pure pumpkin and not pie filling, which contains additional sweeteners and spices.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Sage Empanadas?
To maintain their deliciousness, place any leftover empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flaky texture and savory flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crisp—about 10-15 minutes should do!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Sage Empanadas?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delightful pockets! To do so, first arrange the assembled but unbaked empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and fully cooked.

What if my empanadas leak while baking?
If leaks happen, don’t fret! This can occur if the empanadas are overfilled or the edges haven’t sealed tightly. To avoid this, aim for 1.5-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada and make sure the edges are moistened properly before sealing. Additionally, crimping the seams with a fork or twisting the edges can create a tighter seal.

Are Pumpkin Sage Empanadas suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Very much so! These empanadas are entirely vegetarian, featuring wholesome ingredients like pumpkin, onions, sage, and spices. They can also be a fantastic alternative for those observing meatless meals. However, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, keep an eye on the egg wash for potential egg allergies or follow a plant-based route with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.

Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare and fill the empanadas in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. This makes for an effortless solution for gatherings or busy weeknights. Just remember to bake them straight from the fridge; they might need an additional minute or two in the oven!