8ounces(227 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature
1/4cup(84 grams) honey
1large egg
2tablespoonsall-purpose flour
1/2cup(50 grams) chopped California walnuts
For coating:
1large egg
2tablespoonsgranulated sugar
1teaspoonground cinnamon
Instructions
Make the dough:
Heat the water and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until butter has melted. Add in the sugar, salt, and flour. Remove from heat and stir with a wooden spoon until a wet and oily dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Make the filling:
In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and honey until well combined. Add the egg and beat until combined. Stir in the flour and walnuts. Mixture will be runny.
Assemble and bake:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out 5-inch circles. Roll each circle slightly to further flatten before sealing the corners to prevent the filling from running out while assembling.
Pour about 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling inside each pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal. Crimp with the back of a fork.
Make ahead: At this point the unbaked empanadas can be covered and refrigerated for 1 day. They can also be frozen and baked straight from the freezer, just add about 3 minutes to the baking time.
In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 teaspoon water. In another small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Brush the empanadas with egg wash then sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar.