PUMPKIN EMPANADAS

3 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. lard or shortening
2 beaten eggs
1/2 c. milk

Pumpkin Filling
Cooking oil or shortening for deep-fat frying (optional)

Powdered sugar or sugar

Milk (optional)

In a mixing bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in lard or shortening until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Combine eggs and milk; add to flour mixture, stirring until all is moistened (use hands, if necessary). Form into a ball. Cover and chill for 1 hour. Meanwhile, prepare Pumpkin Filling. Divide dough into 16 portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 6-inch circle. Place about 3 tablespoons of the Pumpkin Filling in the center of each circle. Brush edges with water. Fold in half; press edges with tines of fork to seal. Fry or bake as directed below. Makes 16.

TO FRY: Fry empanadas, a few at a time, in deep hot 375 degree fat about 4 minutes or until golden, turning once. Drain on paper toweling. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

TO BAKE: Place empanadas onto a greased baking sheet. Brush tops with milk; sprinkle with sugar. Bake, uncovered, in a 400 degree oven about 15 minutes or until golden.

PUMPKIN FILLING
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 (16 oz.) can pumpkin, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup raisins, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.