Empadinhas de Palmito
BrazilianAppetizer

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Empadinhas are miniature savory pies that hold a special place in Brazilian cuisine. These palm heart-filled versions showcase the countrys love for this tender vegetable. The buttery, flaky crust encases a rich, creamy filling made with hearts of palm, sautéed onions, garlic, and melted cheese. Traditionally baked in small muffin tins, these golden pastries are perfect for serving at celebrations, casual gatherings, or as an afternoon snack with coffee. The combination of textures—crispy exterior and smooth, flavorful filling—makes empadinhas irresistible. They represent the Brazilian tradition of transforming simple ingredients into elegant finger foods that bring people together.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter.

  2. For the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Add eggs and milk gradually, mixing until dough comes together. Divide dough into two portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

  4. For the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.

  5. Drain and chop hearts of palm into small pieces. Add to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes.

  6. Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream. Season with salt, black pepper, and parsley. Cook until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  7. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut circles to fit muffin cups, pressing dough into each cup.

  8. Fill each pastry cup with the palm heart mixture, leaving space at the top.

  9. Roll out remaining dough and cut circles for tops. Place over filling and press edges to seal. Cut a small slit in each top.

  10. Brush tops with beaten egg yolk for golden color.

  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from tin.

Empadinhas de Palmito

4.2 (29)

Delicate Brazilian mini pies filled with creamy hearts of palm, onions, and cheese. These savory pastries are a beloved snack served at parties and gatherings throughout Brazil.

medium
55 min
12 servings

Ingredients

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Dough

  • 2 1/2 cups flour, sifted
  • 8 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 pieces eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

Filling

  • 1 pieces onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive-oil
  • 4 tablespoons cream-cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cups heavy-cream
  • 1/4 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, fresh chopped

Chef Tips

expert advice
For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the filling.
If you cannot find fresh hearts of palm, canned or jarred varieties work perfectly—just drain them well.
The dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
For a richer crust, substitute half the butter with cream cheese.
These empadinhas freeze beautifully before baking; simply add 5-10 minutes to baking time when cooking from frozen.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Try variations with shrimp, chicken, or catupiry cheese for different flavor profiles.
Using a fork to crimp the edges creates an attractive seal and prevents filling from leaking.
Empadinhas de Palmito | Cuisinao