Cookie Empanadas

Name: Cookie Empanadas
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted; 1 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (small curd, 4% milkfat); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup jam or preserves (raspberry, apricot, cherry, lemon curd, etc.); For the Almond Glaze:; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 tsp almond extract; 2 to 3 tbsp milk (as needed for drizzling consistency)

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When it comes to cookies that make people stop and stare, cookie empanadas steal the show. With their golden, flaky crusts and jam-filled centers, they look just like miniature pastries—but one bite reveals a tender cookie-like texture that’s pure magic. These delightful treats are perfect for holidays, cookie swaps, or just because. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients, including one secret that takes them over the top.

If you’ve never tried baking with cottage cheese, this is your sign to start. In this guide, you’ll learn what makes cookie empanadas so irresistible, how to fill them with different flavor combinations, and the easy steps to master them at home.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for another creative cookie idea that’ll wow your guests.

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A Sweet Twist on a Savory Classic

Traditionally, empanadas are savory turnovers found in Latin American and Spanish cuisine, typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Cookie empanadas flip that idea on its head—using a sweet, buttery dough and fruity fillings to create handheld desserts that look like empanadas but taste like soft, buttery cookies.

These pastries are baked, not fried, and they’re finished with a light drizzle of almond glaze. The result? A flaky, jammy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s halfway between a Danish and a shortbread cookie.

How These Cookies Earned Their “Empanada” Name

The term “empanada” might raise some eyebrows when applied to a dessert, but the shape and folding technique are the same. These cookies are made by cutting rounds of dough, adding a small amount of jam, folding them over into half-moons, and sealing the edges with a fork—just like traditional empanadas. It’s that iconic shape that inspired the name, and it’s what makes them instantly recognizable on a dessert platter.

The Surprising Secret Ingredient That Makes Them Unique

Here’s where this cookie recipe really stands out: cottage cheese. That’s right. Instead of just butter or cream cheese, these cookie empanadas get their soft, rich texture from cottage cheese—specifically, small curd, 4% milkfat cottage cheese. It adds subtle tang, moisture, and a bit of protein, all without affecting the flavor. Plus, it helps create that tender, crumbly texture that sets these cookies apart from others.

Cottage cheese may be underrated in baking, but once you try it in this recipe, you’ll be converted. The dough is rich, pliable, and perfect for rolling out and shaping—without becoming too dense.

Don’t miss our Chewy Maple Brown Sugar Cookies for another soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookie recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Classic Pantry Staples with One Unique Dairy Surprise

You don’t need anything fancy to whip up these delicious treats. In fact, most of the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have on hand. Here’s what makes up the base dough for cookie empanadas:

Ingredient	Purpose
All-purpose flour	Forms the structure of the dough
Cold butter	Adds richness and flakiness
Granulated sugar	Light sweetness to the dough
Salt	Balances the sweet flavors
Vanilla extract	Adds warmth and aroma
Cottage cheese	The secret to soft, tender texture

Instead of sour cream or cream cheese, cottage cheese brings a creamy texture and subtle tang. It’s what helps this dough stand apart from traditional sugar cookie dough. If you’re skeptical, just know it was ranked #1 in a taste test by Epicurious, making it a trusted choice for baking.

Want another cottage-cheese-based recipe? Don’t miss our Creamy Pumpkin Pasta—a savory twist on this versatile ingredient.

Best Filling Options—Jams, Curds, and Preserves

Once you’ve prepped the dough, it’s time to fill each round with a burst of flavor. These cookie empanadas are perfect for using up small amounts of jam or fruit preserves sitting in your fridge.

Here are the top filling ideas to consider:

Raspberry jam – A classic with almond glaze
Apricot preserves – For a sweet and tangy finish
Cherry or strawberry jam – Great for holidays
Lemon curd – Adds brightness and contrast
Fig jam or date spread – For a rich, earthy flavor

Only use ¼ to ½ teaspoon of filling per cookie to avoid leaks during baking. A little goes a long way.

Looking for something bold and fruity? Check out our Dried Apricot Almond Cake Recipe—a great companion to these jam-based cookies.

Optional Toppings and Glazes to Elevate the Flavor

Once baked and cooled, these cookies get a light drizzle of almond glaze that sets them apart. It’s quick to make with powdered sugar, almond extract, and a splash of milk.

Want to go the extra mile? Try:

Sliced almonds sprinkled before glaze sets
Dusting with powdered sugar instead of glaze
White chocolate drizzle for a modern twist

These toppings make them perfect for cookie swaps, tea parties, or festive trays. They also add visual contrast—so your cookie empanadas look as good as they taste.

Discover great ideas like our Easy Fresh Peach Fritters if you’re all about glazes and sweet finishes.

Making the Dough with a Food Processor

One of the best parts about this recipe is how simple it is to bring the dough together. You don’t need a stand mixer—just a food processor and a few pulses.

Start by combining your cold butter and sifted flour in the food processor. Pulse until you get a coarse, sandy texture with pea-sized butter chunks. Then, add sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and the secret star—cottage cheese. Blend just until the dough comes together and forms a soft ball.

Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling helps firm it up, making it easier to roll and shape without sticking or tearing.

Craving more flaky, fruit-forward pastries? Check out our Flaky Apricot Scones Recipe—they pair perfectly with a morning cup of coffee.

Cutting, Filling, and Sealing Like a Pro

Once chilled, place the dough on a floured surface and roll it out to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter (a glass works too!) to cut out circles.

Now comes the fun part—filling. Add a small amount (¼ teaspoon) of your favorite jam, preserve, or curd to the center of each dough circle. Avoid overfilling or the cookies might leak during baking.

Moisten the edges with a little water, then fold the dough in half over the filling to form a crescent. Use a fork to press and seal the edges. For extra security and charm, flip and crimp the other side too.

Place the sealed empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and prick the tops lightly with a fork to let steam escape.

Don’t miss our Pumpkin S’mores Cookies if you love stuffed cookies that surprise with every bite.

Baking to Golden Perfection and Glazing Afterward

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the cookies for 15 minutes, or until just starting to turn golden around the edges. They should be light and flaky—not overly browned.

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. While they cool, whip up the almond glaze by mixing:

1 cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp almond extract
2 to 3 tbsp milk (adjust to desired drizzling consistency)

Drizzle over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for 20 minutes before serving or storing.

Store these sweet empanadas in an airtight container for up to 4 days—though they rarely last that long.

Looking for more holiday baking treats? Don’t miss our Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars for a buttery, seasonal twist that complements these cookies perfectly.

Can I freeze cookie empanadas before baking?

Yes! Cookie empanadas can be frozen unbaked. After filling and sealing them, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F, adding 2–3 extra minutes to the baking time. They’ll still be golden, flaky, and perfect.

What fillings work best for cookie empanadas?

Fruit-based fillings like raspberry jam, apricot preserves, lemon curd, and cherry jam are ideal. Avoid runny or overly wet fillings, which may leak during baking. Nut butters and chocolate spreads can also work for a modern twist.

Do I have to use cottage cheese in the dough?

While cottage cheese adds unique softness and moisture, you can substitute ricotta cheese or even cream cheese in equal amounts. However, cottage cheese gives the best balance of texture without making the cookies too dense.

How long do cookie empanadas stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make cookie empanadas gluten-free?

Yes. Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your other ingredients (like jams or extracts) are certified gluten-free.

Looking for more gluten-free dessert options? Discover great ideas like our Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies for chewy, indulgent bites without the gluten.

Conclusion: Bake Once, Impress Always

Whether you’re looking to spice up your cookie tray or simply try something new, cookie empanadas are a game-changer. These jam-filled, crescent-shaped delights combine nostalgic comfort with bakery-level charm—and they’re easier to make than you’d expect.

With flaky dough, fruity centers, and that irresistible almond glaze, they’re sure to become a family favorite for holidays, potlucks, and weekday cravings alike. Plus, the versatility in fillings means there’s a version for every palate.

Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal flavors and toppings to keep things fresh—and try baking a batch with your favorite jam combo today!

Check out our Cinnamon Apple Bread Recipe for another cozy treat to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee.