Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup butter (cold and diced); 0.5 cup white sugar; 2 tablespoons cold water; 3 cups apples (peeled and diced); 0.5 cup caramel sauce; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/20/2025

If you’re looking to indulge in a comforting dessert that perfectly combines the tastes of fall, you’re in the right place. Our Caramel Apple empanadas recipe brings together sweet apples and creamy caramel, wrapped in a crispy golden pastry. Not only are these empanadas delectable, but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re a novice in the kitchen.

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Growing up, autumn was always a special time in our household, as my grandmother would bring the family together to make her famous pastries. One of my treasured memories is the smell of sweet apples and cinnamon wafting through her cozy kitchen. While turning the corner from pumpkin pies to these caramel-filled delights was an adventure, it reminded us all of how desserts can bring people together and create lasting memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our Caramel Apple empanada recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves combining classic flavors with innovative preparations. Here’s why:

Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Unique Flavors: Traditional empanadas with a delightful, sweet twist.
Perfect for Fall: This treat uses seasonal ingredients, capturing the essence of autumn.
Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will enjoy making and devouring these empanadas!

Ingredients Notes

To create these tempting delights, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

Apples: Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
Caramel: Opt for high-quality caramel squares for melted perfection.
Empanada Dough: Pre-made dough is a time saver, but homemade will enhance the flavor.
Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon adds a warm depth to the filling.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare your apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them into small cubes.

Step 2

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apples, a pinch of cinnamon, and a bit of sugar. Cook until the apples are slightly tender but still hold their shape.

Step 3

Roll out your empanada dough and cut into circles. Spoon a generous amount of the apple mixture onto each circle, adding a caramel square on top.

Step 4

Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to seal the edges, ensuring the filling is secured inside.

Step 5

Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Storage Options

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each empanada individually and tuck them into a freezer-safe bag. Reheat by baking them in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, swap out refined sugar for coconut sugar and opt for whole wheat pastry dough. You can also try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch, or use dark chocolate chunks in place of caramel for a rich variation.

Serving Suggestions

These empanadas are perfect for cozy family gatherings or holiday parties. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream, or as a delightful after-school snack with a glass of milk or apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough from scratch? Yes, making homemade dough can elevate the texture and flavor of your empanadas. Use a basic pastry dough recipe, adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Are these empanadas suitable for vegans? Absolutely! Simply substitute the caramel for a dairy-free alternative and ensure your dough is made without butter or eggs. There are plenty of vegan dough recipes available online.

Can I prepare the filling in advance? Yes, you can prepare the apple filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and make the assembly process quicker.

Whether you’re crafting these empanadas for a weeknight dessert or a holiday feast, they’re certain to impress. Their warm apple filling, intertwined with gooey caramel and encased in a flaky crust, is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the sweet flavors of autumn with each bite, and create your own delicious memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the empanadas ahead of time and bake them later?

Yes, you can assemble the empanadas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Place the assembled, unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the empanadas from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary. You can also freeze them before baking.

What are some good substitutions for the apples?

You can substitute the Granny Smith apples with other tart apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn, which will provide a slightly different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can use a combination of sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala, but you might need to reduce the amount of sugar added to the filling. Pears can also be used in place of apples, offering a different texture and taste.

How do I know when the empanadas are perfectly baked?

The empanadas are perfectly baked when the crust is a deep golden brown color, indicating that the dough is cooked through and crispy. You should also see the caramel bubbling slightly through any small cracks or openings in the crust. The filling should be warm and the apples tender. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes, you can easily scale this recipe. When doubling, use two baking sheets and bake the empanadas in batches, or rotate the sheets halfway through baking for even cooking. For a tripled recipe, you may need to use three baking sheets and potentially increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Ensure your oven has enough space for all the baking sheets and adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly.

What is the nutritional value of these caramel apple empanadas?

These empanadas offer some nutritional benefits, primarily from the apples, which provide fiber and Vitamin C. The cinnamon adds antioxidants. However, the recipe also contains sugar and caramel, which contribute to the overall sugar content. To make them slightly healthier, you can use whole wheat pastry dough and reduce the amount of added sugar in the apple filling.

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Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe

A delightful dessert featuring caramel and apples wrapped in a delicious pastry.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter cold and diced
0.5 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons cold water
3 cups apples peeled and diced
0.5 cup caramel sauce
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix flour and sugar, then cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add cold water and mix until dough forms. Roll out dough and cut into circles.
In another bowl, combine apples, caramel sauce, and cinnamon, then spoon the mixture onto dough circles.
Fold dough over filling, crimp edges to seal, and place on baking sheet.
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.