Caramel apple empanadas are one of my favorite desserts! They combine sweet, warm apples with gooey caramel, all wrapped in crispy pastry. To make them, I mix peeled and diced apples with caramel and a touch of cinnamon. After placing the filling in dough circles, I fold them up and bake until golden. The best part? They’re super fun to make and even better to eat! I love serving them warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, you’ll want to try this treat, and I can’t wait to share more delicious ideas with you!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll often find me reaching for this recipe whenever I crave a sweet treat that’s both comforting and fun to make.
Here’s what you’ll love:
- Sweet, gooey caramel
- Crisp, flaky pastry
- Apples bursting with flavor
- A twist on dessert trends
These caramel apple empanadas perfectly blend flavor profiles that dance on your taste buds, making each bite a joyful liberation of sweetness.
Recipe
Indulge in the sweet and delectable flavors of Caramel Apple Empanadas, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that combines flaky pastry with a rich caramel and apple filling. Perfect for parties or a cozy evening treat, these empanadas are sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup of caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 package of pre-made empanada dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with caramel sauce, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
- Lay out the empanada dough circles on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the apple-caramel mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash to give them a golden finish.
- Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.
Notes:
- Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the apple filling for extra texture.
- These empanadas can be served warm or at room temperature.
Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Serving: Makes approximately 12 empanadas
- Calories: Approximately 180 calories per empanada
- Cuisine: American/Mexican fusion
Enjoy these warm Caramel Apple Empanadas as a delightful dessert that’s both comforting and satisfying!
Equipment
To whip up those delicious Caramel Apple Empanadas, you’ll need some key equipment that can streamline the process.
Here’s what I recommend:
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter
Let’s get cooking!
What to Serve With This Recipe
Now that you’ve got those delicious caramel apple empanadas ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve with them!
I love pairing these sweet bites with a warm cup of cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra yum factor.
And don’t forget to get creative with toppings—whipped cream, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel can take them to the next level!
Perfect Pairing Beverages
When savoring caramel apple empanadas, the right beverage can elevate the experience to new heights.
I love pairing them with warm apple cider or even a splash of spiced rum for a cozy twist. Hot chocolate or a chai latte brings comfort, while a drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness.
For something more elegant, dessert wine is simply delightful. Cheers to tasty moments!
Complementary Side Dishes
Alongside caramel apple empanadas, serving a side dish that complements the flavors can truly enhance your meal.
Consider pairing them with vanilla ice cream topped with whipped topping, or a warm bowl of spiced cider.
Add some seasonal fruits for freshness, and a sprinkle of nutty crunch.
Drizzle chocolate sauce or caramel for extra flair, making every bite a delightful experience!
Topping Ideas Galore
Transforming your caramel apple empanadas into an even more indulgent treat can be as simple as adding the right toppings.
Think about drizzling warm chocolate sauce or caramel over them—yum! You can also mix and match topping combinations like nuts, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon.
These flavorful variations take your empanadas to a whole new level, satisfying every sweet craving!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Dough Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely, I love using store-bought convenience when I’m short on time. While homemade benefits provide a personal touch, store-bought dough lets me whip up delicious treats without the hassle, giving me more freedom to savor my creations!
How Do I Store Leftover Caramel Apple Empanadas?
I usually store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge. For caramel storage, I recommend keeping it in a separate container, ensuring it stays fresh and ready for my next delicious treat!
Can These Empanadas Be Frozen for Later?
Can I freeze these tasty treats for later? Absolutely! The freezing benefits include extended shelf life. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge or bake briefly for that fresh, delicious taste. Enjoy your freedom!
What Type of Apples Work Best for This Recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness balance. These choices elevate flavors uniquely, giving you the freedom to enjoy an incredible dessert experience.
Are Caramel Apple Empanadas Suitable for Vegetarian Diets?
Are you curious if these tasty treats fit a vegetarian diet? I’ve found that using vegetarian substitutes and caramel alternatives makes them perfect for plant lovers. Freedom in flavor means everyone can enjoy delicious desserts together!