Empanadas

Empanadas are delightful pastry pockets filled with various savory or sweet ingredients, enjoyed across many cultures and cuisines. They are the perfect finger food for get-togethers, parties, or a quick snack on the go. Making empanadas from scratch can be a bit time-consuming, especially when trying to achieve that perfectly sealed edge. That’s where an empanada press comes in, simplifying the process and saving you time in the kitchen.

An empanada press is a tool designed specifically to help you create uniform, professional-looking empanadas with ease. It consists of a hinged mold that you fill with dough and your choice of filling, close, and press to create a neatly sealed empanada. Made from various materials like plastic, metal, or wood, these kitchen gadgets come in different sizes, accommodating a wide range of empanada styles.

When shopping for an empanada press, it’s essential to consider the size and material of the mold, as these factors will impact your ability to create the perfect empanada easily and efficiently. Additionally, a dishwasher-safe press can make cleanup a breeze, while a non-stick surface can help prevent dough from tearing or sticking during use.

Through careful research and testing, we’ve gathered a list of the best empanada presses on the market, focusing on factors like size, functionality, durability, and ease of use. Follow along as we guide you through our top picks to make your empanada-making experience an enjoyable and successful one.

Best Empanada Presses

We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best empanada presses available today to help you create perfectly sealed and delicious empanadas with ease.

Prepworks Multifunctional Dough Press, Set of 3 Sizes

Prepworks Dough Press

This Prepworks dough press set is a must-have for those who love creating hand pies, empanadas, and other dough-based treats with ease and style.

Pros

  • Comes in a set of 3 sizes: 4, 5, and 6 inches
  • Decorative crimped edge design for a beautiful presentation
  • Dishwasher safe and easy to clean

Cons

  • Made of plastic, which may cause discomfort after extended use
  • Does not offer multiple cutting settings
  • Might be flimsy for those who prefer a sturdier tool

The Prepworks Multifunctional Dough Press is designed to simplify the process of making hand pies, empanadas, dumplings, and more. With its set of 3 sizes, you have options for creating different dimensions of dough-based meals. The crimped edge design not only ensures that your fillings stay sealed but also provides an appealing look to your creations.

The dough press is made of plastic which may cause some discomfort after prolonged use. However, this does not take away its effectiveness in sealing and cutting dough effortlessly. Its dishwasher-safe feature ensures easy cleanup after you have enjoyed crafting your delicious treats.

In conclusion, the Prepworks Multifunctional Dough Press is an excellent choice for those who enjoy crafting a variety of homemade meals. The pros outweigh the cons, making this a reliable tool to have in your kitchen arsenal. The different sizes included, easy-to-use design, and dishwasher-safe cleanup make it an essential purchase for cooks of all skill levels.

MUMSUNG Empanada Press Maker

MUMSUNG Empanada Press

We highly recommend the MUMSUNG Empanada Press Maker for those seeking a simple and effective way to create perfectly sealed empanadas and dumplings.

Pros

  • Speeds up the making process
  • Easy for beginners and kids to use
  • Offers a tight and visually appealing seal

Cons

  • May not work well with all store-bought dough sizes
  • Biscuit cutters may become dull quickly
  • The plastic construction could be more durable

The MUMSUNG Empanada Press Maker is a kitchen gadget that simplifies and speeds up the process of making empanadas, dumplings, and similar treats. With the ability to create perfect, sealed pastries in just 30 seconds, this handy tool is a game-changer for both experienced and beginner home cooks.

This multipurpose dumpling mold set is user-friendly and versatile, allowing even kids to make a wide range of pastries like Jamaican beef patties, pierogi, ravioli, and more. The unique deep crinkle design ensures a tight and attractive seal, preventing leaks or the pastry opening during cooking.

However, it’s worth noting that this empanada press may not be the perfect fit for all types of store-bought dough, depending on their size. Additionally, some users have experienced dulling of the biscuit cutters after some use. While the press itself is made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic, it may not be as durable as some metal alternatives.

Overall, we believe the MUMSUNG Empanada Press Maker is a valuable and efficient tool for anyone looking to perfect their pastries with ease and speed. Just be aware of its potential drawbacks before making your purchase.

KANKAN Double Head Dumpling Maker

KANKAN Double Head Dumpling Maker

This KANKAN Double Head Dumpling Maker is a practical choice for those who want to make dumplings quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality.

Pros

  • Double head design for making two dumplings at once
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Can be used to make various types of dumplings and small desserts

Cons

  • May have difficulty sealing edges on some dumplings
  • Limited filling capacity
  • Produces relatively small dumplings

The KANKAN Double Head Dumpling Maker is built with a unique double-head design, allowing you to create two dumplings at once, making it perfect for those with limited time in the kitchen. Its construction consists of food-grade ABS and 304 stainless steel, ensuring durability and safety for your culinary creations.

Using this dumpling maker is simple and efficient. Just place the dough in the designated slots, add your preferred filling, and press down to close the dumpling. The non-slip rubber pad on the base adds stability and ensures the press stays in place during use. You can experiment with different types of dumplings, potstickers, and even small desserts, giving you endless possibilities in the kitchen.

One drawback of this product is that some users have reported issues with proper sealing of the dumplings, which may require extra attention when closing the press. Additionally, the filling capacity is limited, which could cause overflow and difficulty sealing if you try to add too much filling. Finally, the dumplings produced by this press are smaller in size compared to other options, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.

In conclusion, the KANKAN Double Head Dumpling Maker is a versatile and efficient product for making dumplings and other small treats. While it has a few shortcomings, its unique double-head design and ease of use make it a worthy contender for your kitchen gadget collection.

BTaT Dough Press Set

BTaT Dough Press Set

The BTaT Dough Press Set is a convenient and budget-friendly choice for preparing empanadas, dumplings, and hand pies effortlessly.

Pros

  • Efficient for making various types of hand pies and dumplings
  • Decorative crimped edge design for a polished presentation
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cons

  • Made from plastic, which may not be as durable as metal alternatives
  • Could become uncomfortable to use after extended periods
  • Limited to manual operation with only one setting

The BTaT Dough Press Set offers three different sizes to cater to diverse pastry-making needs, making it an excellent addition to your kitchen. The back side of each press contains a circle for cutting out the dough to the perfect size, ensuring that your pies and dumplings come out consistently shaped.

Made from plastic, this dough press set is lightweight and straightforward to use. However, it may not be as sturdy as other metal options available. The decorative crimped edge design not only helps to seal your favorite fillings inside the dough but also gives a visually appealing look for your homemade treats. Being dishwasher safe adds convenience to the package as it ensures a hassle-free cleanup process after you’ve wrapped up your culinary creations.

One downside of the BTaT Dough Press Set is that some users may find it uncomfortable to use after extended periods due to its plastic construction. Additionally, it operates manually and comes with only one setting, which might not suit everyone’s preferences.

In conclusion, the BTaT Dough Press Set is an affordable and practical choice for occasional use, particularly for those who are new to making empanadas, dumplings, and hand pies. While it may not be the ideal option for heavy-duty or professional use due to its plastic material, it still serves as a great starter kit for home cooks looking for an easy way to create delicious hand-held treats.

Proshopping Stainless Steel Dumpling Maker, X-Large 5″ Goya Empanada Press

Proshopping Stainless Steel Dumpling Maker

We believe this Proshopping empanada press is a great choice for its multifunctionality, high-quality materials, and user-friendly design.

Pros

  • Made of 100% food grade stainless steel
  • Easy 3-step process to create empanadas
  • Dishwasher safe and easy to clean

Cons

  • Might be too large for some users’ preferences
  • Handles may bend under pressure
  • Efficiency depends on dough consistency

The Proshopping Stainless Steel Dumpling Maker showcases its high-quality construction with its 100% food grade stainless steel and mirror-polishing surface. This durable and solid material ensures long-lasting usage for anyone looking to create delicious dumplings, empanadas, or ravioli.

Featuring 2 long stick handles, this kitchen tool streamlines the process of making your favorite filled pastries. In just 3 simple steps – fill, fold, and press – you can achieve perfectly sealed dumplings and empanadas with ease. This high efficiency and easy handling make it a must-have for homemade meals.

One of the standout features of this empanada press is its easy-to-clean and dishwasher-safe design. The smooth surface ensures that minimal food remains after use, making your post-meal cleanup a breeze.

However, some users may find the 5″ diameter size of this press too large for their preference. Additionally, the handles could potentially bend under pressure when used to seal the dough, depending on your technique. Lastly, the success of using this tool may rely on the consistency of your dough – it should be neither too wet nor too dry to achieve the best results.

Overall, we recommend the Proshopping Stainless Steel Dumpling Maker for those who value a multifunctional, high-quality, and easy-to-use kitchen gadget for their homemade empanadas and dumplings.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best empanada press, it’s important to consider several factors, such as size, material, and ease of use. In this buying guide, we’ll walk you through these considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Size

First, consider the size of the empanada press. They come in various sizes, and the right one for you may depend on the size of the empanadas you plan to make. Smaller empanada presses are suitable for making bite-sized appetizers, while larger ones can produce more sizable pastries for main courses.

Material

The material used in manufacturing the press plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Common materials include:

  • Plastic: Lightweight and budget-friendly, but may not be as durable as other options.
  • Metal: Offers greater longevity and durability but can be heavier and more expensive.
  • Silicone: Flexible, non-stick, and easy to clean, but may not provide as much pressure as a rigid press.

Ease of Use

A user-friendly empanada press should be easy to operate and require minimal effort to achieve perfectly sealed pastries. Look for a design that opens and closes smoothly, provides even pressure across the dough, and releases the empanada easily after pressing.

Additional Features

Some empanada presses offer additional features, such as integrated dough cutters, non-stick surfaces, or ergonomic handles. Consider whether such features are important to you and if they will contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable experience when making empanadas.

By taking the size, material, ease of use, and additional features into account, you can select the best empanada press that fits your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size press is best?

When it comes to empanada presses, size matters depending on your preferences and needs. The most common sizes range from 4 to 6 inches. We recommend a 6-inch press for a more versatile use, allowing for both bigger and smaller empanadas. However, if you prefer smaller, snack-sized empanadas, a 4-inch press might be best for you.

Which material is preferred?

Empanada presses are usually made from plastic, aluminum, or stainless steel. We suggest choosing a stainless steel press, as it is more durable and less likely to break compared to plastic. Aluminum presses are also a good option, offering a lightweight and rust-resistant choice.

Where can I buy one?

Empanada presses can be found at various retailers, including department stores, kitchen supply stores, and online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond. Don’t forget to check out customer reviews and ratings to ensure you’re picking the best option.

Top recommended brands?

Some top recommended brands for empanada presses include Imusa, Norpro, and Bellemain. These brands are known for their durability, quality, and user-friendliness. Be sure to compare models and features to find the perfect press for your needs.

Manual or electric press?

Both manual and electric empanada presses are available for purchase. We recommend manual presses for most users due to their affordability, easy maintenance, and simple usages. However, if you plan to make a large number of empanadas frequently, consider investing in an electric press for added convenience and efficiency.

How to clean and maintain?

Cleaning and maintaining your empanada press is essential to ensure its longevity. After each use, hand wash your press with warm soapy water, making sure to gently scrub away any food residue. Rinse, dry it thoroughly, and store it in a dry place to prevent rusting or damage. Occasional light oiling of moving parts in a manual press can keep it functioning smoothly.

Traditional Empanada Recipe

Since there are so many variations of empanadas, it can be difficult to find the one that works perfectly for everyone. We decided to indulge in the Argentine beef empanadas; you are welcome to add or change anything you see fit! After all, that’s part of the fun!

It will take about 1-2 hours to prep depending on your desired yield and 25-35 minutes to cook. This recipe will make about 20 medium empanadas.

Ingredients for the dough:

  • About 3 cups of flour
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup of lard or butter
  • About 1 cup of milk

Ingredients for the beef:

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 pound of beef
  • 2 white onions
  • ½ cup lard or butter
  • 1 egg white and yolk
  • 3 hard boiled eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of paprika
  • ½ tablespoon of cumin
  • 1 serving of green onions
  • 1 tablespoon of oregano
  • 2 teaspoons of chili powder
  • Salt and pepper

For the empanada filling, heat the olive oil in a large pan. Add in the onions and garlic to fry until onions are soft. Mix your ground beef, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper together in a separate bowl. Add this mixture to the large pan of onions, garlic, and olive oil. Cook until the meat is done and ready. Throw in chopped oregano and green onions. Let it cool in the fridge until the liquids solidify for juicy empanadas.

For the empanada dough, mix the salt into the flour using a food processor, then add in the lard or butter; work it into the flour. Slowly add in the milk (it gives these Argentine beef empanadas their creaminess) and the egg yolk. Keep track of the consistency until it is dough-y. Take them out of the processor and form the dough into one flat disc; allow it to chill in the fridge for half an hour.

Take out the dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Next, you’ll want to take your empanada press and press even circles onto the dough. There will be leftover dough so combine all those pieces and create another disk. Keep pressing the empanada press into dough until there is very little to none remaining.

Then, take the same empanada press and place the circular dough at the top. Brush some of the egg white over the edges to ensure a good seal. Depending on the size of your press, eyeball a good amount of your filling and place it in the center of the circular dough. Press the empanada press together tightly for a few seconds and release. Wow! So easy! Now repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Brush the dough of each empanada with some egg yolk.

Once you’re done preparing your empanadas, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bake the empanadas for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the outer dough is golden. And there you go! Serve with your favorite sauce and/or a side salad.

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