If you have a soft spot for warm, gooey desserts with a touch of crispiness, you absolutely need to try this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe. This treat combines tender, spiced apple filling with rich caramel, all wrapped in a perfectly golden, crispy crust that just melts in your mouth. Whether as a special weekend indulgence or a cozy after-dinner delight, these empanadas bring a comforting burst of fall flavors to your table with minimal fuss and maximum joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that come together beautifully to create a symphony of taste and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the tart apples balancing the sweetness, to the flaky dough providing that irresistible crunch.
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Firm apples offer the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness and hold their shape well during cooking.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps create a luscious syrupy filling.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm, fragrant spice that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle earthy hint that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp butter: Melts into the filling for richness and a silky texture.
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce: The luscious caramel coats the apples, enhancing their sweetness and adding gooey goodness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a little brightness to the filling.
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or empanada dough (8-10 rounds): Convenient and flaky dough for that perfect crispy crust.
- 1 egg: Used for egg wash, helping the empanadas achieve a golden, shiny finish.
- 1 tbsp water: Mixed with the egg to create the egg wash.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, making the empanadas deliciously crisp and golden.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar coating, adding a crunchy sweet finish.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar, intensifying that wonderful cinnamon flavor on the outside.
How to Make Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by melting butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg if you’re using it, and lemon juice. Let this cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens into a syrupy consistency. Then stir in the caramel sauce and cook for another couple of minutes so the apples are fully coated in that caramel goodness. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely because this step ensures your empanadas won’t get soggy when baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Empanadas
If you’re working with refrigerated pie crusts, gently roll them out on a floured surface to smooth any creases. Using a round cutter about 4 to 5 inches in diameter, cut circles from the dough—expect around 8 to 10 depending on size. These circles are the base that will hold all the delicious filling, so aim for even sizes for consistent baking.
Step 3: Fill the Empanadas
Place about a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling right in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill as that could make sealing tricky later on. Fold the dough in half to create that classic half-moon shape, then pinch the edges firmly to seal. For extra security and a decorative touch, press the edges with a fork to crimp them tightly.
Step 4: Make the Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until combined. This simple mixture will be brushed over the top of each empanada, giving them a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish once fried. Don’t skip this step—it’s what makes these treats so eye-catching!
Step 5: Fry the Empanadas
Heat about 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot—around 350°F or 175°C. Carefully lower a few empanadas into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, so they fry evenly. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to safely flip and remove them from the oil.
Step 6: Drain and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Place the fried empanadas on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. While they’re still warm, roll them in a shallow bowl containing granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon. This coating adds a delightful sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, caramel apple filling inside.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your caramel apple empanadas while still warm, perhaps with a side of extra caramel sauce for dipping or a dollop of whipped cream. This step lets every bite be filled with comforting, luscious flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce instantly elevates your Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe. Fresh mint leaves can add a lovely pop of color and freshness that contrasts with the warm, sweet flavors.
Side Dishes
Pairing these empanadas with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream transforms this snack into a decadent dessert. For an afternoon treat, a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee enhances the cozy fall-inspired flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try presenting the empanadas on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by apple slices and cinnamon sticks, for a charming farmhouse vibe. You could also serve them individual style in small paper baskets lined with parchment paper, perfect for parties or potlucks where presentation counts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the crust will keep most of its crispness if reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze un-fried assembled empanadas on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to freezer bags. This allows you to enjoy fresh empanadas whenever you want—just fry them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftover or frozen empanadas, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I bake the caramel apple empanadas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative if you want a lighter version. Brush the empanadas with egg wash, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and crisp.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that complements the caramel.
Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Yes! Homemade caramel sauce adds an extra special touch with its fresh, buttery richness. You can easily prepare it with sugar, butter, and cream if you prefer making it yourself instead of using store-bought.
How do I prevent the empanadas from becoming soggy?
Cool the apple filling completely before assembling your empanadas. Also, make sure to properly seal the edges and avoid overfilling. Frying at the right temperature ensures a crispy crust that won’t get soggy quickly.
Can I use gluten-free dough for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free refrigerated pie crusts or empanada dough can be used as a substitute. Just be mindful of handling as gluten-free dough can be more delicate.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe as much as I do. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug — a perfect blend of crispy, sweet, and comforting all in one bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this little piece of autumn magic. You’re going to love it!
Print
Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the sweet and crispy goodness of Caramel Apple Empanadas, a perfect dessert or snack featuring tender cinnamon-spiced apples enveloped in flaky fried dough and coated with a cinnamon sugar mix. These empanadas combine the comforting flavors of caramel and apples with a crispy golden exterior, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
For the Empanadas:
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts or empanada dough (about 8–10 rounds)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens into a syrupy consistency. Stir in the caramel sauce and cook for another 2 minutes until the apples are fully coated. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
- Prepare the empanadas: If using refrigerated pie crusts, roll them out slightly on a floured surface to smooth out creases. Using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough. You should get about 8-10 circles depending on the size of the dough.
- Fill the empanadas: Place a tablespoon or so of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to press down on the edges to crimp and ensure they’re securely sealed.
- Make the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish when fried.
- Fry the empanadas: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully lower the empanadas into the oil, a few at a time, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and coat with cinnamon sugar: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the empanadas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. While the empanadas are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
- Serve: Serve the caramel apple empanadas warm, with extra caramel sauce or whipped cream on the side if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the filling is cooled before filling the dough to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Do not overfill empanadas to avoid leakage during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for even frying and to prevent greasy empanadas.
- Use a fork to crimp edges tightly for a neat seal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven for best crispiness.
