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
Scale
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.
