Introduction

Cajeta empanadas are a signature dessert of Mexican cuisine, characterized by their golden, crispy dough filled with sweet, creamy cajeta. Their distinctive flavor and easy preparation have made them a popular choice at fairs, bakeries, and family celebrations.

Beyond their delicious flavor, these empanadas represent a fusion of culinary traditions that have evolved over time. From their origins in colonial times to their current popularity, cajeta empanadas remain a staple of Mexican pastries.

In this exposé , we will explore the history of these empanadas, their step-by-step preparation process, their cultural significance, and some interesting facts that make them unique.

History of Cajeta Empanadas

Cajeta empanadas are a traditional Mexican pastry delicacy, with an origin that combines Spanish heritage with native Mexican ingredients. Their history is linked to the arrival of the empanada in America and the development of cajeta in the state of Guanajuato, particularly in the city of Celaya , considered the birthplace of this goat’s milk sweet.

Origin of Empanadas

Empanadas, as a concept, have their origins dating back to medieval Spain, where they were prepared with various fillings, from meats to fruits and sweets. With the arrival of the Spanish in the Americas, this tradition merged with local ingredients, giving rise to regional variations in different countries. In Mexico, sweet empanadas began to become popular with fillings like piloncillo, dulce de leche, fruits, and, of course, cajeta .

Cajeta and its Importance in Mexico

Cajeta has a special history in Mexico. Its origin is attributed to the colonial era, when the Spanish introduced goats to Mexico. Goat’s milk proved ideal for preparing a caramelized sweet that, over time, became an icon of national cuisine. In the 19th century, Celaya, Guanajuato, stood out as the main producer of cajeta, gaining fame for the quality and flavor of its product.

One of the most important moments in the history of cajeta occurred during the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) , when it became an essential food for soldiers. Its long shelf life without refrigeration and high energy content made it ideal for troops, further contributing to its popularity throughout the country.

Fusion of Traditions: The Birth of Cajeta Empanadas

The combination of empanadas and cajeta was a natural evolution in Mexican cuisine. In various bakeries and homes, the dough was first filled with cajeta to create a delicious and convenient dessert. Over time, techniques were perfected to prevent the cajeta from leaking out when baking, giving rise to ovenable cajeta , used today to ensure a thicker, more stable filling.

Another interesting element in the traditional recipe of some regions is the use of Coca-Cola in the dough . This ingredient, which arrived in Mexico at the beginning of the 20th century, began to be incorporated into various bakery recipes for its ability to add softness and a light caramelized touch to the dough.

Cajeta Empanadas Today

Today, cajeta empanadas remain a classic Mexican pastry. They can be found in bakeries, at fairs, and during holidays such as the Day of the Dead, Christmas, and Lent. Although the basic recipe has remained the same, there are several variations, including cajeta empanadas with walnuts, cream cheese, or sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon for a special touch.

This dessert is not only a culinary delight, but also a symbol of Mexico’s creativity and gastronomic richness. The combination of a recipe of Spanish origin with an ingredient as iconic as cajeta has resulted in a dish that has endured for generations, delighting both children and adults with its unparalleled flavor.

Cajeta empanadas are more than just a dessert: they represent the fusion of two cultures and the ingenuity of Mexican cuisine. Their history is steeped in tradition and flavor, making them one of the country’s most beloved recipes. Whether prepared at home or purchased from a bakery, these empanadas remain a delight that evokes memories of childhood, family gatherings, and special moments.

Making Cajeta Empanadas

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 1 kilo of wheat flour
  • 500 grams of vegetable shortening
  • 1 1/2 cups of sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 cup of Cola (for a soft and fluffy texture)
  • 1 egg

For the filling and decoration:

  • Bakeable cajeta (sufficient quantity)
  • 1 egg (for coating)
  • Cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling)

Step by Step: Making Empanadas

1. Preparing the dough

Mix the flour with the sugar and salt in a large bowl.
Add the butter and work the mixture with your hands until you get a sandy texture.
Gradually add the Coca-Cola and knead until a smooth, manageable dough forms.
Let the dough rest, covered with a cloth, for 20 minutes.

2. Forming the empanadas

Divide the dough into small, walnut-sized balls.
Flatten them using a tortilla press or a rolling pin until you have a thin circle.
Add a spoonful of cajeta to the center and fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
Seal the edges by pressing with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out when baking.

3. Baking

Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.
Place the empanadas on a greased baking sheet or baking sheet lined with waxed paper.
Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 20 minutes , until the empanadas are firm and golden.

4. Final touch

Remove the empanadas from the oven and, while still warm, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
Let cool completely before serving so the cajeta can set.

Cultural Importance and Tradition

Cajeta empanadas are not only a delicious dessert, but also a testament to Mexico’s culinary riches. They are very popular at celebrations such as the Day of the Dead, local fairs, and patron saint festivals , where they are sold alongside other traditional sweets.

Furthermore, they are part of the legacy of convent cuisine, as the nuns used to make desserts with simple but flavorful ingredients, creating recipes that have survived for generations.

In different states of Mexico, empanadas have adopted variations: some are filled with dulce de leche, jams or fruits , but the version with cajeta remains the most traditional and appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can empanadas be made with other fillings?
Yes, although cajeta is the traditional filling, you can use dulce de leche, hazelnut spread, guava jam, or even cream cheese.

How can I make the dough crispier?
Using very cold butter and not over-kneading helps make the dough more flaky and light.

How long do empanadas last?
If stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature.

Can they be fried instead of baked?
Yes, but baking gives them a lighter, less greasy texture. If you decide to fry them, do so in hot oil until golden brown.

Variations of Cajeta Empanadas

Although the traditional recipe is delicious on its own, there are some variations that can give these empanadas a special touch:

Spiced Dough : You can add a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla, or orange zest to the dough for extra flavor.

Cajeta and walnut empanadas : Adding chopped walnuts to the filling provides a crunchy texture and a deeper flavor.

Empanadas with cheese : Some recipes combine cajeta with cream cheese, creating a creamy and slightly acidic filling that balances the sweetness.

Glazed Empanadas : Instead of sprinkling them with sugar and cinnamon, you can cover them with a glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a shiny, sweet finish.

Tips for Better Preparation

 Use oven-safe cajeta : Regular cajeta can become too runny in the oven, so it’s recommended to use oven-safe cajeta to prevent it from boiling over.

 Rest the dough : Letting it rest for a few minutes after kneading helps the ingredients blend better and make it easier to handle.

 Don’t overfill : Adding too much filling can cause the empanadas to split open in the oven. Ideally, one tablespoon per empanada.

 Seal the edges well : To prevent the cajeta from leaking, press the edges firmly with a fork or lightly moisten the edge with water before sealing.

 Preheat the oven well : This will ensure even cooking and that the dough browns properly.

Curiosities about Cajeta Empanadas

Celaya, Guanajuato, is the birthplace of cajeta , and it is in this city where one of the most famous cajetas in Mexico is made.

Empanadas have an international origin , as similar versions exist in different countries, such as “pastelitos” in Argentina, “turnovers” in the United States, and “empanadillas” in Spain.

Cajeta empanadas can be found in traditional markets, bakeries, and Mexican fairs , especially during festive seasons such as the Day of the Dead and Christmas.

The Coca-Cola in the recipe is no coincidence : Its use in the dough helps make it fluffier and slightly caramelized thanks to its sugar and gas content.

Pairing: What to Pair Them With?

Cajeta empanadas go perfectly with:

 Café de olla : The spicy flavor of coffee with cinnamon highlights the sweetness of the cajeta.
Hot or cold milk : For a classic and comforting touch.
Cinnamon or chamomile tea : Softens the sweetness and provides aromatic balance.
Vanilla ice cream or cajeta : Serving them with a scoop of ice cream creates a delicious contrast between hot and cold.

Texture and Flavor

  • Texture: The donuts are very soft, fluffy, and slightly crispy on the outer layer. Thanks to the Cola, the dough develops a more airy and tender texture.
  • Flavor: The sweet, buttery flavor of the dough predominates , balanced by the caramelized touch of the oven-baked cajeta . The sugar and cinnamon coating provides a warm and comforting flavor.

Consumer Context

  • Perfect for breakfast, snacks or as a homemade dessert .
  • They are ideal for family celebrations, traditional fairs, gatherings with friends, or for indulging in a sweet treat.
  • Especially popular at patron saint festivals or fairs in several Latin American countries.

Visual Aspect

  • Shape: Round, slightly inflated, with a uniform golden color.
  • Finish: Sprinkled with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon , and if filled or decorated with cajeta , they can have a shiny and appetizing appearance.
  • Interior: Full of small alveoli (bubbles), which show the fluffiness achieved.

Curiosities

  • Coca-Cola not only adds sweetness but also helps the yeast work better, making the dough lighter and more airy.
  • Cajeta (goat’s milk candy) is a very popular filling in Mexico and Latin America, where it is associated with traditional celebrations.
  • In some Mexican states, using soda in dough is a classic home baking technique to achieve a more “lively” or “bouncy” bread.

Estimated Nutritional Value (per donut)

(Estimated for a medium-sized donut)

  • Calories: 300–400 kcal
  • Fats: 15–20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40–50 g
  • Sugars: 20–30 g
  • Protein: 3–5 g

Note: The value may vary depending on the size of the donut and the amount of cajeta used.

Additional Benefits and Interesting Facts

  • High energy content:
    Perfect for moments when you need a quick dose of energy, such as after intense physical activity or on cold days.
  • Emotional satisfaction:
    Eating a hot, freshly made, homemade donut produces a feeling of comfort and happiness due to its flavor and aroma.
  • Tradition and creativity:
    This recipe encourages creativity in the kitchen and can be customized with different fillings (chocolate, pastry cream, fruit) or decorations (colored sprinkles, icing).
  • Interesting fact:
    Vegetable shortening provides a much lighter texture than traditional butter, and is a widely used trick in classic baking to achieve ultra-soft doughs.

Conclusion

Cajeta empanadas are a dessert that combines history, tradition, and flavor in every bite. Their preparation is simple and their ingredients are accessible, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Beyond being a delicious dessert, they represent an important part of Mexican cuisine , combining European influences with local ingredients and techniques. Whether at fairs, bakeries, or at home, cajeta empanadas remain a symbol of sweetness and tradition.

If you haven’t tried making them at home yet, we invite you to follow this recipe and surprise your family with this exquisite dessert. Enjoy them with a good cup of coffee and share their incredible flavor!

Cajeta empanadas are a jewel of Mexican pastries, with a rich history and unparalleled flavor. Their combination of soft, crispy dough and sweet, creamy cajeta filling makes them an irresistible dessert.

Beyond their simplicity, these empanadas reflect the creativity and passion for cooking that characterize Mexican cuisine. They’re ideal for sharing at family gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon.

If you haven’t made them yet, go ahead! By following these tips and variations, you can customize the recipe and surprise everyone with a homemade dessert full of flavor and tradition.