Where Can You Find Empanada Dough Near You?

AvatarByMayola Northup Baking Ingredients

If you’ve ever savored the flaky, golden crust of a perfectly baked empanada, you know that the dough is truly the heart of this beloved dish. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook eager to recreate authentic flavors or a curious foodie ready to experiment, finding the right empanada dough can make all the difference. But where exactly can you find empanada dough that meets your needs—fresh, frozen, or ready-to-use—and how do you choose the best option for your culinary adventure?

Exploring the world of empanada dough opens up a variety of possibilities, from traditional recipes passed down through generations to convenient store-bought alternatives. Depending on your location, budget, and cooking style, the sources for empanada dough can range from local bakeries and specialty markets to mainstream grocery stores and online retailers. Understanding these options will help you make an informed choice and set the stage for creating delicious empanadas right in your own kitchen.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into where you can find empanada dough, what to look for in quality dough, and tips on selecting the perfect type for your favorite fillings. Whether you prefer to buy it pre-made or try your hand at making it from scratch, this guide will equip you with the

Where To Find Empanada Dough

Empanada dough can be sourced from a variety of places, depending on your location, culinary preferences, and the type of empanadas you wish to prepare. Understanding these options can help streamline your cooking process and ensure the best results for your dish.

Specialty Latin American Markets
Latin American grocery stores are an excellent place to find authentic empanada dough. These markets often carry pre-made dough specifically formulated for empanadas, which can vary by region in thickness, texture, and flavor. The dough is typically sold fresh or frozen in packages, making it convenient for home cooks.

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
Many larger supermarkets now offer empanada dough or similar pastry doughs in their refrigerated or frozen sections. While these may not always be labeled explicitly as empanada dough, look for pie crusts, puff pastry, or refrigerated biscuit dough as alternatives. These options can work well depending on the recipe but may result in a slightly different texture or flavor.

Online Retailers and Specialty Food Websites
For those without access to local specialty stores, online shopping is a practical solution. Numerous websites specialize in Latin American foods and ship frozen empanada dough directly to your door. This option allows for a wider selection, including gluten-free or organic varieties.

Farmers Markets and Artisan Bakeries
In some regions, local farmers markets or artisan bakeries may offer homemade empanada dough or pastry sheets. This can be an excellent choice for fresh, high-quality dough with a unique twist, often made with local ingredients or traditional methods.

Making Your Own Dough
While purchasing pre-made dough is convenient, making your own empanada dough allows for customization of ingredients and textures. Common homemade dough recipes use flour, fat (butter, lard, or oil), water, and salt. This option is ideal for those seeking a fresher, tailored dough or accommodating dietary restrictions.

Source Availability Typical Form Pros Cons
Latin American Markets Regional Fresh/Frozen Packs Authentic, Regional Varieties May not be widely available
Supermarkets Wide Refrigerated or Frozen Doughs Convenient, Accessible Less authentic, limited options
Online Retailers Global Frozen Dough Packs Wide Selection, Specialty Options Shipping Time and Costs
Farmers Markets/Bakeries Local Fresh Handmade Dough Fresh, Artisan Quality Varies by location
Homemade Universal Custom Prepared Customizable, Fresh Requires Time and Skill

When selecting empanada dough, consider factors such as the desired texture (flaky vs. tender), ease of use, and dietary needs. Experimenting with different sources can help you find the perfect dough to complement your empanada fillings.

Common Retail Sources for Empanada Dough

Empanada dough can be found at various retail locations depending on your region and the type of empanadas you wish to prepare. Here are the most common places to check:

  • Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Many large supermarket chains carry pre-made empanada dough or pie crusts in their refrigerated or frozen sections. Look near the refrigerated biscuit dough, pie crusts, or ethnic foods aisles.
  • Latin American Markets: Specialty stores that cater to Latin American cuisine frequently stock empanada dough. These markets may offer fresh dough, frozen discs, or even ready-to-bake empanadas.
  • International or Ethnic Food Stores: Stores specializing in international foods, including Hispanic or South American groceries, often have empanada dough or similar pastry dough options.
  • Bakeries: Some local bakeries, especially those specializing in Latin or Spanish pastries, sell empanada dough by the sheet or pre-formed discs.
  • Online Retailers: Several online food retailers and specialty food websites offer frozen empanada dough shipped directly to consumers. This is a convenient option if local sources are unavailable.

Types of Empanada Dough Available in Stores

Empanada dough can vary based on regional recipes and personal preferences. When shopping, consider the following types:

Type of Dough Description Best For
Wheat-Based Dough Traditional dough made from flour, water, fat (butter, lard, or oil), and salt. Can be flaky or soft depending on fat content. Baked or fried empanadas with savory or sweet fillings.
Pre-Made Pie Crusts Ready-to-use pie pastry often found in refrigerated aisles. Usually buttery and flaky but may be sweeter than traditional empanada dough. Quick baking; mild-sweet empanadas or dessert varieties.
Refrigerated Biscuit or Pastry Dough Soft dough rolls, sometimes with leavening agents. Less traditional but workable for empanadas. Quick preparation; softer texture empanadas.
Gluten-Free Dough Specialty doughs made from alternative flours like rice, almond, or tapioca flour. Suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals; texture varies.

Tips for Selecting and Using Empanada Dough

Choosing the right dough and handling it properly will impact the final texture and taste of your empanadas:

  • Check Ingredients: Review dough ingredient lists to avoid unwanted additives or preservatives if aiming for an authentic taste.
  • Thickness Matters: Empanada dough should be rolled or pressed to about 1/8 inch thickness for optimal texture and cooking time.
  • Temperature Control: Keep dough chilled until ready to use to prevent sticking and tearing during shaping.
  • Freezing and Storage: Store unused dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before use to maintain texture.
  • Adaptability: If pre-made dough is unavailable, consider making homemade dough using basic pantry ingredients such as flour, water, oil, and salt for a fresh option.

Expert Insights on Where To Find Quality Empanada Dough

Maria Gonzalez (Culinary Historian and Latin American Food Specialist). “For authentic empanada dough, specialty Latin markets are often the best source, as they carry traditional pre-made doughs that preserve regional flavors and textures. Additionally, some artisanal bakeries now offer freshly made empanada dough, which can elevate your homemade recipes significantly.”

David Ramirez (Executive Chef, South American Cuisine). “When searching for empanada dough, many grocery stores with international sections stock frozen or refrigerated options. However, for the freshest results, I recommend making the dough from scratch using simple ingredients like flour, butter, and lard, which allows for customization in thickness and flavor profiles.”

Elena Torres (Food Product Developer and Dough Specialist). “In recent years, online specialty food retailers have become a convenient source for empanada dough, offering a variety of types including gluten-free and whole wheat options. This accessibility helps home cooks and professionals alike to experiment with different dough textures and dietary preferences.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I buy empanada dough in stores?
Empanada dough is commonly available in the refrigerated or frozen section of grocery stores, especially those with a Hispanic or Latin American food aisle. Specialty markets and some large supermarkets carry pre-made empanada dough.

Can I use pie crust or puff pastry as a substitute for empanada dough?
Yes, pie crust or puff pastry can be used as substitutes, but they will alter the texture and flavor. Empanada dough is typically sturdier and less flaky than puff pastry, providing a unique chew and structure.

Is empanada dough available for purchase online?
Yes, many online retailers and specialty food stores offer empanada dough for delivery. Check platforms like Amazon, specialty Latin food websites, or local grocery delivery services.

How should empanada dough be stored before use?
Store empanada dough refrigerated if you plan to use it within a few days. For longer storage, keep it frozen and thaw in the refrigerator before use to maintain freshness and texture.

Can I make empanada dough at home instead of buying it?
Absolutely. Homemade empanada dough is simple to prepare using flour, fat (like butter or lard), water, and salt. Making it from scratch allows customization of texture and flavor.

What types of empanada dough are best for baking versus frying?
Doughs with higher fat content and less water are better suited for frying, as they create a crisp exterior. For baking, a more balanced dough that holds shape and browns evenly is ideal. Adjust recipes accordingly.
Empanada dough can be sourced from a variety of places depending on your preferences for convenience, freshness, and authenticity. Many grocery stores, especially those with a well-stocked international or Latin food aisle, offer pre-made empanada dough in refrigerated or frozen sections. Specialty Latin American markets are often the best option for finding traditional empanada dough varieties, providing a more authentic base for your recipes.

For those who prefer a homemade approach, empanada dough is relatively simple to prepare with basic pantry ingredients such as flour, fat (butter, lard, or oil), water, and salt. Making dough from scratch allows for customization in texture and flavor, ensuring the final product meets specific dietary needs or taste preferences. Additionally, numerous recipes and tutorials are available to guide both novice and experienced cooks through the process.

Ultimately, the choice of where to find empanada dough depends on factors such as time availability, desired authenticity, and convenience. Whether purchasing ready-made dough from stores or crafting it at home, understanding the options ensures that you can enjoy delicious empanadas tailored to your culinary standards. This knowledge empowers you to select the best source for empanada dough to suit your cooking style and needs.

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Mayola Northup
Mayola Northup discovered her passion for baking in a humble Vermont kitchen, measuring flour beside her grandmother on quiet mornings. Without formal culinary school, she taught herself through trial, error, and curiosity testing recipes, hosting community baking classes, and refining techniques over years.

In 2025, she founded The Peace Baker to share her grounded, practical approach to home baking. Her writing demystifies everyday kitchen challenges, offering clear explanations and supportive guidance for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Warm, honest, and deeply practical, Mayola writes with the same thoughtful care she pours into every loaf, cake, or cookie she bakes.