If you’re craving something warm, sweet, and utterly irresistible, the Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe is your new best friend. These delightful pockets pack tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling drenched in luscious caramel, all wrapped in golden, crispy dough that melts in your mouth. Every bite brings this perfect harmony of gooey sweetness and comforting spice, making it a standout treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive dessert. Trust me, once you try this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe, it will become your next go-to recipe for sharing joy through food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component—from the tart apples to the buttery dough—plays an essential part in crafting depth of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color that will have everyone eagerly reaching for seconds.
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): These bring the tartness and juicy texture that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds rich, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the apple’s natural flavor wonderfully.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): A subtle hint of spice to deepen the fall-inspired notes.
- 1 tbsp butter: Creates that silky richness in the sautéed filling.
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade): The heart of caramel flavor that coats the apples and keeps them decadently sweet.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds a refreshing tang.
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or empanada dough (8-10 rounds): The flaky, crispy exterior that encloses all the deliciousness.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Gives a glossy, golden finish after frying.
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash): Helps thin the egg wash for easy brushing.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving that crispy, beautifully golden crust.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For a sweet, crunchy coating once the empanadas are fried.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar to add that extra cinnamon kick on the outside.
How to Make Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in those diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg if you’re using it, and lemon juice. Cooking this mixture for 5 to 7 minutes lets the apples soften and the sugars create a lovely syrupy glaze that clings to every bite. Then, stir in caramel sauce and cook for a couple more minutes until everything is glossy and perfectly coated. Let the filling cool completely—this step is crucial to keep your dough from getting soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Empanadas Dough
If you’re working with refrigerated pie crusts, unroll and gently smooth them out on a floured surface to eliminate any creases. Use a round cutter about 4 to 5 inches in diameter to cut out circles—the number you get will depend on your dough size, but expect 8 to 10 pieces ready to be filled.
Step 3: Fill the Empanadas
Place approximately a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Remember, less is more here to avoid any bursting while frying. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly. Using a fork to crimp the edges not only secures the filling but also gives a charming rustic look.
Step 4: Make and Apply Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and water to create a glossy egg wash. Carefully brush the tops of each empanada with this mixture—that golden shine you’re aiming for comes from this simple step, bringing out the irresistible color once fried.
Step 5: Fry the Empanadas to Perfection
Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep skillet to about 1 to 2 inches deep. When the oil reaches about 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius, gently lower in a few empanadas, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until beautifully golden and crispy. The smell alone will tell you they’re ready!
Step 6: Drain and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Once fried, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil. While still warm, roll each empanada in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon—this adds a sweet, crunchy finish that complements the soft, caramel apple inside.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Caramel Apple Empanadas warm, maybe with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy. These treats are pure joy and perfect for sharing, so get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce takes these empanadas to the next level. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy coolness that contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced filling.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet treats with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For brunch or dessert, consider fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the empanadas on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic feel. You can also place them in individual cupcake liners for a fun, bite-sized party platter. For a festive touch, add edible flowers or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top of the whipped cream garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the crust may lose some crispness, but reheating helps revive their crunchy charm.
Freezing
You can freeze un-fried, assembled empanadas by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two extra to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring back their crispness, reheat empanadas in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples besides Granny Smith or Honeycrisp?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp provide the best balance of tartness and sweetness, other firm apples like Fuji or Gala work well too. Just avoid very soft apples that can turn mushy when cooked.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce on hand?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can make a quick version by melting brown sugar with a little butter and cream, or simply skip it—the filling will still be delicious with the brown sugar and cinnamon alone.
Can these empanadas be baked instead of fried?
Yes, for a lighter option, you can bake them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crisp. Just brush with the egg wash and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Is there a way to make these empanadas vegan?
To veganize this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe, use a plant-based butter and egg substitute for the wash, such as almond milk mixed with maple syrup. Also, choose a vegan pie crust and ensure your caramel sauce is dairy-free.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during frying?
Make sure not to overfill the empanadas and press the edges firmly together, either by pinching or crimping with a fork. Allowing the filling to cool before assembling also helps keep the dough from becoming too soft and breaking.
Final Thoughts
Making these Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug on a plate. The combination of sweet, spiced apples wrapped in crispy, golden dough is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging in a comforting treat just for you, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully crispy caramel apple empanadas filled with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and coated in a fragrant cinnamon sugar. These easy-to-make fried pastries are perfect for dessert or a special treat, combining tender cooked apples and luscious caramel inside a golden, flaky crust.
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, yielding 8-10 circles depending on dough size.
- Fill the empanadas: Place about a tablespoon of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Avoid overfilling. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and pinch edges together to seal securely. Use a fork to crimp edges for a tight seal.
- 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 achieve a golden, shiny finish when fried.
- Fry the empanadas: Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the empanadas into the hot oil in batches without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and coat with cinnamon sugar: Remove the fried empanadas with tongs or a slotted spoon and place them on paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil. In a shallow bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. While warm, roll the empanadas in the cinnamon sugar to coat thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve the caramel apple empanadas warm. Optionally accompany with extra caramel sauce or whipped cream for added indulgence. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness and texture.
- Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling to prevent dough from becoming soggy.
- Ensure the oil temperature is steady around 350°F to achieve a crisp, golden crust without absorbing excess oil.
- Do not overfill the empanadas to avoid bursting during frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
