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Caramel Apple Empanadas

Caramel Apple Empanadas

Caramel Apple Empanadas are warm, flaky pastry pockets filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a luscious caramel drizzle. This easy-to-make dessert combines the comforting flavors of apple pie with the crisp texture of empanadas, perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a cozy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Filling

  • 3 cups firm, tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Caramel & Dough

  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 package empanada dough or pie crust (store-bought or homemade), enough for about 8-10 empanadas

Finishing

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apple filling: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples soften but retain their shape. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before assembling.
  2. Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the empanada dough or pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cutter or bowl, cut out circles about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
  3. Assemble the empanadas: Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Drizzle a small amount of caramel sauce on top of the filling. Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly. Crimp the edges using a fork to seal well and create a decorative finish.
  4. Apply egg wash and bake: Brush the empanatas lightly with the beaten egg to give them a shiny golden crust. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Choose crisp apples like Granny Smith to avoid soggy filling and maintain texture.
  • Do not overfill the empanadas to prevent leaking during baking.
  • If making dough at home, chill it before rolling for easier handling and flakier crust.
  • Seal edges well with a fork to keep juices inside.
  • Allow the apple filling to cool before assembling to avoid melting the dough.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caramel Apple Empanadas, apple dessert, cinnamon apple empanadas, fall desserts, handheld pie, caramel apple recipe