8 Best Empanada Presses (June 2026) Tested & Reviewed

I spent 30 days testing eight different empanada presses in my home kitchen, making over 200 empanadas with various fillings from traditional beef to spicy chicken. Hand-crimping empanadas is therapeutic for a single batch, but when you are feeding a family or hosting a gathering, your fingers will cramp and your patience will wear thin. The best empanada presses solve this problem by creating consistent, bakery-quality seals in seconds, and they are versatile enough for dumplings, pierogi, and hand pies too.

In this guide to the best empanada presses, I will share which tools actually deliver on their promises and which are better left on the store shelf. I tested plastic and stainless steel models, single presses and multi-size sets, budget options and premium picks. Whether you are a weekend cook making empanadas for the first time or someone who regularly batches dumplings for freezer meals, there is a press here that will fit your workflow and your budget.

After weeks of pressing, folding, and tasting, I found that the right empanada press comes down to three things: material durability, size versatility, and how well the edge seals. Let me walk you through what I discovered.

Top 3 Picks for Best Empanada Presses

Best Empanada Presses in 2026

1. PrepWorks 3pc Dough Press Set – Budget Pick

This is the best empanada press for beginners and anyone watching their budget. I tested this set over three weeks, making chicken empanadas, apple hand pies, and pork dumplings. The three sizes (4, 5, and 6 inch) cover most home cooking needs, from appetizer-sized bites to hearty meal portions. What surprised me most was how consistently these presses performed despite the plastic construction.

The dough circle cutter on the back of each press is a brilliant design choice. Before using these, I was using a biscuit cutter and a knife, which created uneven edges and wasted dough. With the built-in cutter, you simply press the backside into your rolled dough and get a perfect circle every time. This small feature saves about 10 seconds per empanada, which adds up quickly when you are making three dozen for a party.

Cleaning these plastic presses is straightforward. They are top-rack dishwasher safe, though I found a quick hand wash was usually faster. The plastic is BPA-free, which matters to me since these tools contact food directly. After multiple wash cycles, I noticed no warping or degradation in the plastic quality. The hinge mechanism remains smooth after dozens of uses, showing that the build quality is better than the price point suggests.

The crimped edge these presses create is decent but not restaurant-quality. For home use, the seal holds up well during baking and frying, but I did experience one or two leaks when I overfilled the empanadas. This is user error more than tool limitation, but a deeper crimp would forgive overfilling better. Still, for under $10, this set delivers excellent value.

For Whom This Press Is Good

This set is ideal for beginners who want to try empanada making without investing in expensive tools. The three sizes give you versatility to experiment with different recipes, and the affordable price point means you will not feel guilty if empanada making turns out to be just a passing phase. Families with children will appreciate the simple operation and colorful design that makes cooking together fun.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

Serious home cooks who make empanadas weekly may find the plastic construction limiting over time. If you prefer stainless steel for durability or need commercial-grade performance for large batches, this budget set will not meet your needs. The crimp depth is also shallower than premium options, which matters if you tend to overfill your pastries.

2. COTEY 6 Inch Stainless Steel Press – Editor’s Choice

This stainless steel empanada press earned my top recommendation because it balances durability, performance, and value. I used the COTEY press for two weeks, making beef empanadas, spinach pierogi, and berry hand pies. The 18/8 stainless steel construction feels substantial in your hand, unlike the lightweight plastic options that can flex during use. This rigidity matters because it ensures even pressure across the entire dough surface.

The 2-in-1 design is genuinely useful. One side cuts perfect 6-inch dough circles, while the other crimps and seals your filled empanada. I was skeptical about whether a single tool could do both jobs well, but the cutting edge is sharp enough to slice through chilled dough cleanly, and the crimping side creates a tight seal that survived both baking and frying without leaks. This versatility means you only need one tool instead of a separate cutter and press.

Cleaning the COTEY press is effortless. The stainless steel surface releases dough easily with just a quick rinse, and it is fully dishwasher safe for thorough cleaning. Unlike plastic presses that can retain oils and odors, the steel surface rinses completely clean. After weeks of testing with various fillings, including strong-smelling chorizo, I detected no residual odors or flavors.

The one design flaw I noticed is the handle mechanism. With heavy use, the hinge can loosen slightly, causing a tiny bit of wobble. This does not affect performance significantly, but it is noticeable compared to premium commercial presses. At this price point, however, it is a minor quibble rather than a dealbreaker.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Home cooks who make empanadas or dumplings regularly will appreciate the durability and performance of this stainless steel press. The 6-inch size is ideal for standard empanadas and generous hand pies. If you want a tool that will last for years and handle frequent use without degradation, this is an excellent investment. The stainless steel construction also appeals to cooks who prefer metal over plastic for food contact.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

If you need multiple size options for different recipes, this single-size press may feel limiting. The 6-inch diameter is perfect for standard empanadas but too large for appetizer-sized dumplings or bite-sized party snacks. Budget-conscious buyers may also find the price premium over plastic options difficult to justify for occasional use.

3. KAYCROWN 6 Inch Empanada Press – Premium Pick

This premium stainless steel press stands out for its elegant design and solid construction. During my testing period, the KAYCROWN press felt like a professional tool in my home kitchen. The mirror-polish finish is not just cosmetic, it actually helps dough release more easily than brushed steel or plastic surfaces. This matters when you are working with sticky doughs or fillings that want to cling to everything.

The 6-inch size creates substantial empanadas that work as full meals. I made chicken and cheese empanadas that held generous fillings without bursting. The sharp outer edge cuts through dough cleanly, creating perfect circles without ragged edges that can prevent proper sealing. This precision is especially valuable when working with delicate doughs that tear easily.

KAYCROWN offers four size options, but I focused on the 6-inch XL model since it matches standard empanada dimensions. The handles are longer than on competing presses, which gives you better leverage and requires less hand strength to achieve a tight seal. My wife, who has grip strength issues, found this press much easier to use than smaller-handled alternatives.

The 1-year warranty provides peace of mind at this price point. Stainless steel should last indefinitely, but manufacturing defects can happen with any product. Having warranty coverage shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product, which is not always the case with budget kitchen tools.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Cooks who appreciate premium kitchen tools and want the best empanada press available will love this option. The elegant appearance means you can serve directly from the press if you are doing a DIY empanada bar at a party. Anyone with hand strength issues will benefit from the longer handles that provide better leverage. If you value aesthetics as much as functionality, the mirror finish makes this press display-worthy.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

Budget shoppers will find the price premium difficult to justify, especially if empanada making is an occasional activity rather than a regular habit. The 6-inch size is also too large for gyoza or smaller dumplings, so if you want multi-size versatility, you would need to purchase additional sizes separately.

4. MUMSUNG 5-Size Dumpling Maker Set – Best Value

This set impressed me with its versatility and thoughtful design. The five sizes (2.6, 3, 4, 5, and 6 inches) cover every possible use case from bite-sized appetizers to meal-sized empanadas. I tested all five sizes over two weeks, making everything from tiny dumpling bites to jumbo breakfast empanadas. Each size performed consistently, creating uniform shapes that looked professional.

The deep belly design is the standout feature. Most empanada presses have a relatively shallow depression, which limits how much filling you can add. The MUMSUNG presses have deeper wells that accommodate generous fillings without overflowing. I was able to pack my chicken empanadas with 30% more filling than usual, creating heartier portions that my family appreciated.

This set includes four stainless steel dough cutters, which match the smaller press sizes. Having dedicated cutters saves time and ensures your dough circles are precisely sized for each press. The cutters are sharp and create clean edges, which helps with proper sealing. I found myself using these cutters even when not making empanadas, as they work well for any circular pastry needs.

The seal these presses create is exceptionally tight. The deep crimp pattern locks in fillings securely, and I experienced almost no leaks during baking. In fact, the seal was so effective that I had to prick a few shells with a fork before frying to allow steam to escape. This is a good problem to have, indicating that the crimping mechanism works as intended.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Cooks who want maximum versatility will appreciate having five size options in one set. If you make different types of stuffed pastries, from bite-sized party appetizers to full-meal empanadas, this set covers all your needs. The deep belly design is perfect for anyone who likes generous fillings. Meal preppers who batch cook for the freezer will find the larger sizes especially useful.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

If you only make standard-sized empanadas and do not need multiple sizes, this set may be overkill. The price is higher than basic 3-piece sets, so unless you will use all five sizes regularly, you might prefer a simpler option. Minimalists who prefer fewer kitchen tools might also find storing five presses plus four cutters cumbersome.

5. Zoie + Chloe Set of 3 Dough Press

This colorful set brings a fun aesthetic to empanada making without sacrificing functionality. The red, green, and pink presses make it easy to grab the right size at a glance, and they add a cheerful touch to the kitchen. I tested these over several sessions, making both sweet and savory empanadas. The three sizes (4, 5, and 6 inches) cover most home cooking needs, from appetizer portions to full meals.

The dishwasher-safe construction is a major convenience. Unlike some plastic presses that require hand washing to preserve the material, these handle the dishwasher well. I ran them through multiple cycles with no warping or degradation. The plastic is food-grade and BPA-free, which is essential for any tool that contacts your food directly.

The crimped edge design creates an attractive finish on your empanadas. The pattern is more decorative than functional, but it does help seal the edges reasonably well. I found the seal adequate for baked empanadas, though fried empanadas sometimes developed small leaks if I overfilled them. This is common with most home presses, not unique to this set.

One technique I discovered: using parchment paper between the dough and the press prevents sticking entirely. Without parchment, very soft doughs can cling slightly to the scalloped edge. With a quick parchment cutout, every empanada releases perfectly. This adds a small step to the process but improves results significantly with sticky doughs.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Families with children will love these colorful, easy-to-use presses. The simple operation makes empanada making a fun group activity, and the bright colors appeal to kids. Anyone who values kitchen aesthetics will appreciate that these tools look attractive sitting on the counter. If you want a reliable set that covers the essential sizes without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

Heavy users who make empanadas weekly may find the plastic construction less durable over time. If you need commercial-grade performance for large batches, these lightweight presses may flex under heavy use. Cooks who prefer stainless steel for food contact may also want to look at metal options instead.

6. Machika Empanada Maker Press Set

This four-piece set offers excellent size variety with a focus on safety and ease of use. The blue plastic presses come in 3, 4, 5, and 6-inch sizes, giving you options from appetizer-sized dumplings to meal-sized empanadas. What sets this set apart is the child-friendly design with no sharp edges or pinch points, making it safe for young helpers in the kitchen.

I tested these presses with my 8-year-old daughter, who was able to use them independently with minimal supervision. The simple operation, sturdy construction, and absence of sharp parts make this an excellent choice for families who want to cook together. The plastic feels durable enough for regular home use, though it would not stand up to commercial abuse.

The half-moon design creates attractive empanadas with a classic crescent shape. The ridged edge provides decent sealing, though I found that moistening the dough edges with water helped create a tighter bond. This is a good practice with any empanada press, but especially helpful with this set to ensure leak-free results.

Beyond empanadas, these presses work well for dumplings, pierogi, ravioli, and even stuffed biscuits. The variety of sizes means you can use them for different cuisines and applications. I made Italian ravioli, Polish pierogi, and Latin American empanadas all with the same set, which speaks to the versatility of the design.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Families with children who want to cook together will appreciate the safe, easy-to-use design. Anyone who makes multiple types of stuffed pastries will value the four-size versatility. Budget-conscious cooks who want more size options than basic 3-piece sets offer will find this set provides good value without a premium price tag.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

If you need a heavy-duty press for daily commercial use, the plastic construction may not hold up over time. Cooks who prefer stainless steel for durability and ease of cleaning may want to invest in a metal option instead. Anyone who makes only one size of empanada regularly might prefer a single high-quality press over a multi-size set.

7. BTaT Dough Press Set

This three-piece set combines fun colors with practical design. The assorted colors make it easy to identify each size at a glance, and the crimped edge creates an attractive finish on your empanadas. I tested these presses over several cooking sessions, making beef, cheese, and apple empanadas. The three sizes cover most home cooking needs, from appetizer portions to hearty meal-sized empanadas.

The backside circle cutter is a useful feature that saves time and ensures consistent dough circles. Before testing this set, I was using a separate biscuit cutter and knife, which created uneven sizes. With the built-in cutter, each empanada starts with a properly sized dough circle, which improves the final appearance and helps with consistent cooking times.

These presses are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup after a big cooking session. The food-safe plastic construction is free from harmful chemicals like BPA and latex. After multiple dishwasher cycles, I noticed no warping or degradation in the material quality. The hinge mechanism remains smooth, showing that the build quality is adequate for regular home use.

The plastic construction feels lightweight compared to stainless steel options, but this is not necessarily a drawback for occasional use. The presses flex slightly under pressure, but this does not significantly affect performance. For the price point, the build quality is reasonable and should last for years with normal home use.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Budget-conscious shoppers who want a reliable set without spending a lot will find good value here. Anyone who appreciates colorful kitchen tools that add personality to cooking will like the vibrant appearance. Beginners who are new to empanada making will appreciate the straightforward design and forgiving nature of these presses.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

Serious cooks who make empanadas weekly may want to invest in a more durable stainless steel option. If you need heavy-duty performance for large batches, the lightweight plastic construction may feel inadequate. Perfectionists who want restaurant-quality crimps might find the seal depth shallower than premium metal presses.

8. IMUSA Jumbo Empanada Maker

This single jumbo-sized press is ideal for anyone who prefers hearty, meal-sized empanadas. At 6.25 inches, it creates substantial pastries that can hold generous fillings. I tested this press for breakfast empanadas loaded with eggs, cheese, and chorizo, and it handled the substantial filling without issues. The size is perfect for a complete meal in one handheld package.

The ridged edge design creates an attractive finish while providing a functional seal. The pattern presses the dough edges together firmly, which helps prevent leaks during cooking. I found the seal adequate for most fillings, though very wet mixtures sometimes needed a little extra pressure or a fork finish to ensure complete closure.

The non-stick surface is a genuine benefit. Dough releases easily from the press without sticking, which can be a problem with some plastic molds. I tested this with both flour-based dough and corn masa, and both released cleanly. This non-stick quality also makes cleaning straightforward, a quick rinse usually removes any residual dough or filling.

The budget-friendly price makes this an accessible option for anyone wanting to try empanada making without a significant investment. At under $5, you can experiment with empanada recipes and decide if it is a hobby you want to pursue more seriously. The low risk factor makes this an excellent starter press.

For Whom This Press Is Good

Cooking for big appetites or want meal-sized empanadas, this jumbo press is perfect. Anyone on a tight budget who wants to try empanada making without spending much will find excellent value here. Beginners who want to start with a single, simple press before investing in multi-size sets will appreciate the straightforward approach.

For Whom This Press Is Not Good

If you need multiple size options for different recipes or appetizer portions, this single large press will be limiting. Heavy users may find the plastic construction less durable over time. Anyone who prefers stainless steel for durability may want to invest in a metal option instead.

How to Choose the Best Empanada Press

After testing eight different empanada presses, I learned that the right choice depends on your specific needs. Here is what matters most when selecting an empanada press.

Material: Plastic vs Stainless Steel

Plastic presses are budget-friendly and lightweight, making them ideal for occasional use and beginners. They are often dishwasher safe and come in fun colors that kids enjoy. However, plastic can warp over time and may not provide the rigidity needed for consistent pressure.

Stainless steel presses cost more but last longer and provide better performance. The metal does not flex during use, ensuring even pressure across the dough surface. Steel also cuts dough more cleanly and releases sticky doughs more easily. If you plan to make empanadas regularly, stainless steel is worth the investment.

Size Guide: Which Diameter Fits Your Needs

Mini presses (2.6-3 inches) are perfect for appetizers, party bites, and dumplings. Standard sizes (4-5 inches) work well for lunch portions and smaller empanadas. Large presses (6 inches and up) create meal-sized empanadas that can hold generous fillings. Jumbo sizes (6.25+ inches) are ideal for hearty breakfast empanadas or dinner-sized portions.

If you are unsure, a multi-size set gives you flexibility to experiment. Most home cooks find that a 3-piece set with 4, 5, and 6-inch options covers 90% of their needs.

Key Features to Look For

A built-in dough cutter saves time and ensures consistent sizing. The cutter should be sharp enough to slice through chilled dough cleanly. Deep crimp patterns create better seals that prevent leaks during cooking. Handles should be comfortable and provide good leverage, especially if you have grip strength concerns.

Dishwasher-safe construction simplifies cleanup, though hand washing is often quicker for presses. Non-stick surfaces help dough release easily and reduce the need for excess flour or oil.

Sealing Performance

The best empanada presses create tight seals that prevent filling from leaking during baking or frying. Look for deep, consistent crimp patterns that press the dough edges together firmly. Some presses seal better than others, and moistening the dough edges with water or egg wash can improve results with any press.

Ease of Cleaning

Dough can stick to presses, especially if you are working with soft or sticky doughs. Non-stick surfaces and smooth materials like stainless steel release dough more easily than textured plastic. Dishwasher-safe options are convenient, but most presses clean quickly with a simple hand wash and warm water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best Empanada Presses

After testing eight options over 30 days and making more than 200 empanadas, the COTEY Stainless Steel Press remains my top pick for its combination of durability, performance, and value. The 2-in-1 design, solid construction, and dishwasher-safe convenience make it a tool I will reach for regularly. Budget shoppers should consider the PrepWorks 3-piece set, which offers excellent versatility at an unbeatable price. For maximum flexibility, the MUMSUNG 5-size set covers every possible use case from appetizers to meal-sized portions.

The right empanada press transforms a tedious, messy process into a quick, enjoyable activity. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a party with appetizers, one of these presses will help you create consistent, professional-looking empanadas that taste as good as they look. Choose based on how often you cook, what sizes you need, and whether you prefer the durability of stainless steel or the value of plastic. You cannot go wrong with any of the options on this list.