If you have a sweet tooth and love cozy autumn flavors, then you are in for a treat with this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe. Imagine the warmth of tender apples wrapped in flaky pastry, all bathed in luscious caramel and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that perfect hint of spice. These empanadas are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, turning simple pantry staples into a comforting dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the buttery crust for flakiness or the gooey caramel for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
- Refrigerated pie crust (2 boxes, 4 crusts total): Pre-made dough saves time and provides a buttery, flaky shell perfect for holding the filling.
- Apple pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Adds tender, cinnamon-spiced apple chunks that are both juicy and richly flavored.
- Kraft caramels (1 bag, 11 oz): Melts into a smooth, sweet caramel that envelops the apples and adds irresistible gooeyness.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Brushed on each empanada for a golden, slightly crispy finish when cooked.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Mixed with cinnamon to add a sparkling sweet crust on the outside.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Gives a warm, spicy note that complements both apples and caramel perfectly.
How to Make Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by warming your apple pie filling and caramels together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until all the caramels melt fully and blend smoothly with the apples. This creates a luscious, sticky filling that will be the heart of your empanadas. Once melted, remove from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle when filling the dough.
Step 2: Cut Dough Circles and Fill
Unroll each refrigerated pie crust and take a large coffee mug or round cutter to cut out 20 circles from the dough—about 5 per crust. This gives you uniform empanadas that bake evenly. Spoon about a tablespoon of the warm caramel apple mixture onto the center of each dough circle. Then, carefully fold the dough over to form half-moons, ensuring the filling stays inside. Pinch the edges firmly together to seal, creating a beautiful edge that also keeps all that delicious filling from oozing out.
Step 3: Butter, Spice, and Air Fry
Melt your butter and brush it generously over each unbaked empanada to ensure they brown beautifully. Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the tops for that irresistible sparkling crust. Work in batches to place the empanadas in your air fryer at 330°F and cook for about 10 minutes. Depending on your air fryer model, keep an eye on them to prevent burning but expect golden, bubbling delight when done. Repeat until all are cooked and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
These empanadas shine on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce takes them to the next level. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent touch that melts beautifully against the warm filling.
Side Dishes
While these are dessert-sized empanadas, pairing them with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk complements the sweetness and adds a cozy vibe. For an adult twist, serve alongside a spiced apple cider or a dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging your Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty serving platter sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. You can also stack them in a pyramid shape for a charming display at parties. For a festive look, garnish with thin apple slices or cinnamon sticks alongside your empanadas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover empanadas, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The pastry may soften slightly but will still taste delicious. For best results, keep them away from moisture and try to consume within a short timeframe.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked empanadas by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes for a quick dessert whenever you have a craving.
Reheating
To revive stored or frozen empanadas, reheat in an air fryer or conventional oven at around 325°F for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and the exterior crisps back up. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these empanadas without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake these empanadas in a conventional oven at 375°F for about 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Just keep an eye on them to make sure the pastry doesn’t overcook.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
The recipe uses canned apple pie filling, but if you want to make your own, opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, which hold up well during cooking and balance the sweetness of the caramel wonderfully.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramels?
Yes! If you prefer, substitute the caramels with an equal amount of caramel sauce. Warm it gently with the apple filling until combined, but be mindful not to make the filling too runny.
How can I prevent the dough from getting soggy with the filling?
Don’t overfill the empanadas, and make sure to pinch the edges tightly to seal the dough well. Also, allowing the filling to cool slightly before assembling helps reduce moisture and sogginess.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The sweet, familiar flavors of caramel and apples are always a hit with kids, and these empanadas are a fun, handheld treat that’s perfect for parties or snacks.
Final Thoughts
With its perfect blend of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and tender apples, this Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe is a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Easy to make and hard to resist, it’s a sweet treat that brings warmth and smiles to any gathering. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
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Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 empanadas
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Caramel Apple Empanadas combine the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling with rich, melted caramel, all wrapped in flaky pie crust and perfectly air fried to golden perfection. They make a delightful dessert or sweet snack, easy to prepare and quick to cook, delivering a crispy, caramelized treat in every bite.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 2 (15 oz) boxes refrigerated pie crusts (4 pie crusts total)
Filling:
- 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
- 1 (11 oz) bag Kraft caramels
Topping:
- 4 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple pie filling and Kraft caramels. Stir continuously until the caramels are completely melted and integrated into the filling. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cut and Fill Dough Circles: Unroll each pie crust and use a large coffee mug or similar round cutter to cut out 5 circles from each crust, yielding 20 circles total. Place about one tablespoon of the warm caramel-apple filling in the center of each circle. Carefully fold each circle over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges firmly to seal the empanadas and prevent leaks.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Melt the butter and brush a thin layer over the tops of each empanada. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over each empanada evenly.
- Air Fry the Empanadas: Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C). Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally to prevent burning, until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Remove and repeat with remaining batches.
- Serve: Allow the empanadas to cool slightly after cooking, then serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use caution when sealing the empanadas to avoid filling leakage during cooking.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer; monitor closely during the last few minutes.
- For a shinier crust, you can brush the empanadas with an egg wash instead of butter, if desired.
- Leftover empanadas can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the air fryer or oven.
