If you’re anything like me, there’s something utterly irresistible about the warm, gooey embrace of apples and caramel wrapped in a crispy, golden shell. This Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe hits all the right notes: sweet and buttery caramel mingles with tender spiced apples, encased in a perfectly fried dough that’s dusted with cinnamon sugar for that extra touch of magic. Each bite is like a cozy fall hug, balancing tartness and sweetness with a crunch that’ll keep you reaching for more. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or just because, these empanadas bring warmth and joy in every delicious fold.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the tart apples to the buttery dough, ensuring your caramel apple empanadas come out perfect every time.
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose crisp apples that balance sweetness and tartness, peeled, cored, and diced for the filling.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that makes the filling aromatic and inviting.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): Just a hint for depth and extra cozy flavor.
- 1 tbsp butter: Melts into the apples creating a luscious, silky base for the filling.
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce: The star ingredient that coats the apples, infusing every bite with gooey goodness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning while brightening their natural flavor.
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or empanada dough (about 8-10 rounds): Convenient and flaky, perfect for wrapping the filling.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden finish on the empanadas.
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash): Dilutes the egg for an even brush-on coating.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying, giving the empanadas their crisp, golden exterior.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar coating that adds a sparkling sweet crunch.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar to enhance the finishing touch on the empanadas.
How to Make Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by melting the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Stir occasionally as the mixture bubbles and thickens for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the apples soften but still hold their shape. Add the caramel sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, making sure every apple piece is drenched in that luscious caramel flavor. Once done, set the filling aside to cool completely — this helps avoid soggy dough later.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough Circles
If you’re using refrigerated pie crusts, gently roll them out on a floured surface to remove creases and smooth the dough. Using a 4- to 5-inch round cutter, cut out circles; this should yield about 8 to 10 rounds depending on your dough’s thickness and size. These circles will be your empanada shells, ready to cradle that irresistible filling.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Empanadas
Place roughly a tablespoon of the cooled apple and caramel filling into the center of each dough circle. Be mindful not to overfill, so the empanadas seal nicely. Fold the dough in half forming a neat half-moon shape, then pinch and crimp the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to lock in that sweet surprise inside. This step is key to keep all that luscious filling inside while frying.
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
Whisk together one egg with a tablespoon of water to create a glossy egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of each empanada; it will give the fried empanadas a beautiful, golden-brown sheen and enhance that crispy crust.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat your vegetable oil in a deep skillet to about 350°F (175°C), enough to submerge the empanadas halfway. Fry the empanadas in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan, for about 2 to 3 minutes per side or until they reach a glorious golden-brown. This hot oil ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the filling warm and gooey inside.
Step 6: Drain and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Remove the empanadas with tongs and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, roll each empanada in a cinnamon sugar mixture made from granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This sugary crust adds a delightful crunch and that perfect hint of spice on the outside.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your caramel apple empanadas warm for the best experience. Add a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream if you want to get fancy — trust me, they taste like little pockets of fall heaven in every bite.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe even more, consider a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. A touch of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements these warm treats beautifully, adding creaminess and an indulgent contrast.
Side Dishes
These empanadas shine on their own but if you want to pair them, try serving with a cup of spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or even a rich coffee. A fresh green salad with tart vinaigrette provides a bright balance if you’re serving these as part of a larger dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, place the empanadas on a rustic wooden board or decorative platter lined with parchment paper. Arrange small bowls of dipping sauces like caramel, bourbon glaze, or cinnamon cream cheese dip nearby for guests to customize their bites. You could even make mini empanadas for cute, bite-sized party treats!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any empanadas left (though that’s unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and retain much of their delicious texture with proper reheating.
Freezing
To freeze, place the un-fried assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fried empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them from getting soggy. This way, you’ll keep their perfect golden crunch and that amazing caramel-apple filling deliciously warm.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are preferred for their balance of tartness and sweetness, but you can experiment with other firm varieties like Fuji or Braeburn. Just pick apples that won’t turn mushy when cooked.
Is it necessary to fry the empanadas, or can they be baked?
Frying gives them that irresistibly crispy, golden exterior, but you can bake empanadas at 375°F for around 20 minutes until golden if you prefer a lighter version. Just brush with egg wash for color and crispness.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The apple caramel filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Make sure it’s completely cool before using it to fill your dough to avoid sogginess.
What can I use if I don’t have empanada dough or pie crust?
You can use puff pastry sheets or even homemade pie dough if you’re feeling adventurous. The key is ensuring the dough is pliable and seals well around the filling.
How long do the empanadas keep their best flavor and texture?
They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm right after frying for peak crispness and gooey filling. That said, they’re still delightful reheated within 2-3 days if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe because it truly brings that perfect cozy, sweet treat right to your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking bites just for yourself, these empanadas capture the very essence of comfort food with a twist. Give them a go, and let the delightful aroma and flavors fill your home with warmth and happiness!
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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 these crispy, golden caramel apple empanadas featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling coated in rich caramel sauce, all encased in flaky fried dough and finished with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect as a warm dessert or indulgent snack.
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 to fully coat the apples. 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 (4-5 inches in diameter), cut out 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, being careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and pinch edges together to seal tightly. Use a fork to press and crimp the edges for a secure seal.
- Make the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together. Brush the tops of the empanadas with this egg wash to achieve a golden, shiny finish after frying.
- Fry the empanadas: Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few empanadas at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and coat with cinnamon sugar: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove empanadas and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. While empanadas are warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally with extra caramel sauce or whipped cream on the side. Enjoy the crunchy, sweet, and tender treat!
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor balance.
- Ensure the filling is completely cooled before filling to prevent dough from becoming soggy.
- Do not overfill empanadas to avoid bursting during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F for perfect frying results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a toaster oven for best texture.
