These Caramel Apple Empanadas are the ultimate Fall treat! Fresh apples, cinnamon-sugar, and caramel are all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust for a totally indulgent dessert.
If you're looking for a delicious and easy dessert that's perfect for fall, these caramel apple empanadas are the perfect choice. Tangy Granny Smith Apples are tossed with delicious warm spices and caramel and then baked in a buttery pie crust for a totally irresistible treat.
These tasty little morsels were inspired by my love for the Taco Bell Apple Empanadas, which were sadly discontinued some time ago. And those things were the best - so I had to create my own version at home.
They taste like a match up of everyone's favorite fall desserts - candy apples, and a classic apple turnover. So good.
And while they look like they took all day to prepare, you can throw them together in about 40 minutes! Plus, they're a great way to use up all those pounds of apples that are in season in the Fall! (And if you're looking for more ways to use up fresh apples, don't miss this apple pie vodka!)
Helpful Tips
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best caramel apple empanadas:
Use granny smith apples!
Granny Smith Apples are tart and firm, which makes them perfect for baking. If you don't have granny smith apples available, you can use another firm apple variety, such as Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, but it won't have the same tart flavor as the Granny Smith Apples.
Use premade pie crusts.
Using premade pie crusts saves time and makes the recipe much easier. You can find premade pie crusts in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Of course, you can make a homemade pie crust as well. This Coconut Oil Pie Crust would work well here.
Prick venting holes.
Pricking venting holes on top of the empanadas allows steam to escape and prevents them from becoming too soggy. Don't skip this step!
Fun Variations
Add some nuts!
You can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the apple filling for extra crunch and flavor.
Mix up the spices
If you don't care for cinnamon, you can use other warm baking spices, such as nutmeg or allspice, to flavor the apple filling. You can even add a dash of chili powder for a sweet and spicy version.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crusts instead of premade ones?
Yes, you can certainly use homemade pie crusts if you're willing to put in the effort! My Coconut Oil Pie Crust would be a great match for these empanadas.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. However, red apple varieties won't have the same characteristic tart flavor that comes from the Granny Smith Apples.
Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the empanadas ahead of time. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
These empanadas also freeze really well, which makes them a great make-ahead option. To freeze unbaked empanadas, assemble them completely (including the egg wash and cinnamon-sugar topping), then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they'll keep for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 350 F, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time. You can also freeze fully baked empanadas the same way - just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a 350 F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Now that you know everything you need to make these delicious caramel apple empanadas, it's time to get baking! They're perfect for a sweet treat after dinner, a snack, or even a breakfast treat on the go. Enjoy!
More Tasty Treats
If you love these Caramel Apple Empanadas, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas:
📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large granny smith apple, peeled and cut into 8 wedges
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 pie crust, store bought or homemade is fine
- 8 caramel candies, unwrapped
- 1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon water beaten, for eggwash
- 3 tablespoons turbinado sugar
- caramel sauce, optional, for drizzling, store bought or homemade
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 F, line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside
- Toss the apple wedges with the brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice; set aside
- Cut the pie crust into 8 equal circles, place onto the baking sheet
- Add one piece of apple and top with one caramel to each pie dough circle
- Brush the edges with eggwash and fold the dough over the apple filling , use a fork to crimp shut
- Brush the outside with eggwash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar; use a fork to prick venting holes on top
- Bake in preheated oven 20 minutes, or until golden brown
- Remove from oven, allow to cool at least 5 minutes then drizzle with caramel sauce if desired
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