Gluten-Free Empanadas Recipe (Crispy, Flaky & Easy to Make)

These gluten-free empanadas are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor—without any gluten at all. Made with a simple gluten-free dough that’s easy to handle, these empanadas can be baked or fried and filled with savory or sweet fillings.

Perfect for anyone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, this recipe proves that gluten-free empanadas can be just as delicious as the traditional version.

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Empanadas

• 100% gluten-free and celiac-friendly

• Crispy, flaky texture without wheat flour

• Easy dough that doesn’t crack

• Perfect for baking, frying, or air frying

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

These empanadas are ideal for snacks, lunch, parties, or weeknight dinners.

What Are Gluten-Free Empanadas?

Empanadas are stuffed pastries popular in Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Gluten-free empanadas use alternative flours instead of wheat, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this classic dish without discomfort.

With the right flour blend and fat ratio, gluten-free empanada dough can be just as tender and flaky as traditional dough.

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Empanadas

Gluten-Free Empanada Dough

• 2½ cups (300 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ cup (113 g) cold butter or dairy-free butter, cubed

• 1 large egg

• ¼–⅓ cup cold water (as needed)

Optional Egg Wash

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp milk or dairy-free milk

How to Make Gluten-Free Empanada Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, salt, and baking powder until well combined.

2. Cut in the Butter

Add cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates a flaky texture.

3. Add Egg & Water

Mix in the egg. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and pliable, not sticky.

4. Rest the Dough

Form the dough into a disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes. This helps hydrate the flour and makes rolling easier.

Gluten-Free Empanada Filling Ideas

Classic Beef Filling

• 250 g ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook until browned. Let cool completely before filling.

Other Savory Fillings

• Shredded chicken and cheese

• Spinach and feta

• Mushroom and onion

• Spiced potato and peas

• Cheese and herbs

Sweet Fillings

• Apple cinnamon

• Chocolate spread

• Guava and cheese

• Banana and Nutella

How to Assemble Gluten-Free Empanadas

1. Roll chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about ⅛-inch thickness

2. Cut into 4–5 inch circles

3. Add 1–2 tablespoons of filling to the center

4. Fold into a half-moon shape

5. Seal edges gently with fingers or a fork

Gluten-free dough is more delicate, so handle gently.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper

3. Place empanadas on the tray

4. Brush with egg wash

5. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden and crisp

Frying Instructions (Optional)

1. Heat oil to 175°C / 350°F

2. Fry empanadas in batches for 2–3 minutes per side

3. Remove when golden and crispy

4. Drain on paper towels

Air Fryer Gluten-Free Empanadas

• Preheat air fryer to 180°C / 350°F

• Lightly spray empanadas with oil

• Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Empanadas

• Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum

• Roll dough between parchment to prevent cracking

• Chill dough before shaping

• Let fillings cool completely

• Do not overfill

Storage & Freezing

Refrigerator:
Store baked empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Freeze unbaked empanadas for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes.

Nutrition Information (Per Empanada – Approximate)

• Calories: 240–270

• Carbohydrates: 26 g

• Protein: 6–8 g

• Fat: 12 g

• Fiber: 2 g

Nutrition will vary based on filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk.

Do gluten-free empanadas taste different?

When made correctly, they’re just as flavorful and crispy as traditional empanadas.

Why is my dough cracking?

Add a little more water and roll between parchment paper.

Final Thoughts

These gluten-free empanadas are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make at home. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they’re perfect for anyone avoiding gluten without sacrificing taste or texture. Once you try them, they’ll become a regular part of your meal rotation.