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!)

apple empanadas, which look like apple turnovers, on a white plate

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!

close up of the caramel apple empanadas on a baking sheet

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.

a pile of apple empanadas on a white plate, drizzled with caramel sauce

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 and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-10 minutes, or 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!

a hand holding the apple empanada with caramel sauce

More Tasty Treats

If you love these Caramel Apple Empanadas, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas:

📖 Recipe