If you’re looking for the perfect fall dessert or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth with something special, this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe is exactly what you need. These Caramel Apple Empanadas are filled with gooey caramel, tart Granny Smith apples, and warm spices, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. This Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe brings the best of both worlds comfort food and indulgent dessert. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just someone searching for a sweet win, this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Yes, you read it right this is the ultimate Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe to bookmark, bake, and brag about.
What Are Caramel Apple Empanadas?
Caramel Apple Empanadas are dessert hand pies inspired by traditional Latin American empanadas, but with a sweet twist. Imagine tart green apples cooked down with cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla, then mixed with luscious caramel. Wrap all of that in a golden, buttery crust and bake until crisp each bite is a warm, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth moment.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
- Perfect for Fall and Holidays
- Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
- Freezer-Friendly for Prep Ahead
- No Special Equipment Required
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ½ cup cold water
Filling:
- 4 Granny Smith apples, diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ⅓ cup caramel, cajeta, or dulce de leche
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- A pinch of salt
Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cinnamon sugar or turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
How to Make Caramel Apple Empanadas
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add in the chilled butter cubes and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually pour in cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Knead it gently just until smooth, divide in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple-Caramel Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine diced apples and lemon juice. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the caramel, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out one portion of dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (4 to 5 inches) to cut out circles.
Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cooled filling onto the center of each circle. Fold over to form a half-moon and seal the edges with a fork.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Whisk the egg yolk and water to make the egg wash. Brush over each empanada.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar or turbinado sugar over the top for extra crunch and sparkle.
Step 5: Bake and Drizzle
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly, then drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Empanadas
- Don’t skip chilling the dough: It helps the butter stay solid and results in a flaky crust.
- Cool the filling completely before stuffing hot filling will melt the dough.
- Seal well: Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly to avoid leaks during baking.
- Experiment with the filling: Add nuts like pecans or switch to pears for variation.
Can I Freeze Caramel Apple Empanadas?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to the filling and sealing step, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
You can, especially if you’re in a hurry. Store-bought pie crust or puff pastry will work, but nothing beats homemade.
What’s the Best Caramel to Use?
Homemade caramel, cajeta (Mexican caramel made from goat’s milk), or dulce de leche are all fabulous. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Can I Air Fry These Empanadas?
Yes, you can air fry them at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. They won’t be quite as golden as baked, but they’ll still be delicious and crisp.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Empanadas
Serve warm with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream
- Extra caramel drizzle
- A dusting of powdered sugar
They’re also excellent on their own as a grab-and-go treat.
A Sweet Finish
This Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe is more than a dessert it’s a moment. A warm, cozy, apple-filled moment that speaks to tradition, comfort, and celebration. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need something sweet, this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe has your back. So roll up those sleeves and let the buttery magic begin!
