Apple Caramel Empanadas

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 17 October 2025

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Apple Caramel Empanadas

When the leaves start to change color and the air turns crisp, nothing says comfort like warm, sweet treats straight from the oven. Apple Caramel Empanadas combine the nostalgic flavors of tender apples, sweet caramel, and buttery pastry, wrapped up in a delightful hand-held delight. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging in a quiet night in, these empanadas bring the comforting taste of fall right to your table.

This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also full of versatile components. You can customize the filling with your favorite spices or even mix in nuts for added crunch. Each bite reveals a perfectly flaky crust enveloping gooey, caramelized apples that beckon you for more. Perfect for dessert or even as a sweet breakfast on weekends, these empanadas are sure to be a hit with anyone lucky enough to grab one!

Ingredients

2 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
Apples are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and a bit of tartness that balances beautifully with caramelization. Choose tart varieties for depth of flavor.
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Sugar enhances the sweetness of the apples while also aiding in the caramelization process when cooked. It turns juicy apple juices into a delectable caramel sauce.
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Cinnamon adds warmth and spice, bringing out the natural flavors of the apples. It can be omitted if you prefer a more straightforward apple taste.
1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
Puff pastry creates a flaky, buttery shell that beautifully complements the soft interior of the empanadas. It bakes up light and crispy, perfect for encasing the filling.

1 egg (beaten)
An egg wash gives the empanadas a golden, glossy finish. It helps them achieve that enticing color while adding a little extra richness.

Directions & Preparation

Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes, placing them in a mixing bowl.
Dicing the apples into small pieces ensures even cooking and optimal flavor distribution throughout the empanadas. This preparation step is essential so that every bite is packed with tender apple goodness.
Sprinkle granulated sugar and cinnamon over the apples, tossing to coat evenly; let sit for 5 minutes.
Letting the apples sit with sugar and cinnamon allows the sugar to draw out the juices, which will concentrate the flavor and create a lovely syrup that enhances the filling. This also helps to tenderize the apples slightly before cooking.

Heat a skillet over medium heat, add apples and their juices, cooking until tender and slightly caramelized (about 8-10 minutes).
Cooking the apples helps to soften them and intensifies their sweetness as they caramelize. Stirring occasionally allows for even cooking and prevents burning, leading to a rich, flavorful filling.
Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Allowing the mixture to cool is crucial before proceeding to fill the pastry. This prevents the heat from scorching the pastry, which could lead to soggy empanadas and messy handling.
Roll out puff pastry sheets and cut each into four squares.
Rolling out the pastry and cutting it into squares provides a uniform size for filling, making assembly easier and ensuring even cooking. Having uniformity helps with visual appeal and portion control.

Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each square, fold over to form a triangle or rectangle, and crimp edges to seal.
Proper sealing of the edges is essential to keep the filling contained during baking. A tight crimp ensures that the empanadas don’t burst open, allowing all the delicious filling to escape.
Brush tops with beaten egg.
The egg wash not only provides a beautiful golden color but also contributes to a crispier texture. This final touch enhances the presentation and gives the empanadas an appetizing finish.
Arrange empanadas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Baking at a high temperature encourages a quick rise in the puff pastry, leading to a flaky texture. Keeping an eye on them towards the latter part of baking helps ensure they do not overcook.

Let cool slightly before serving.
Allowing the empanadas to cool slightly makes them easier to handle and prevents any hot filling from burning your mouth. This short wait enhances the experience of enjoyment as their enticing aroma fills the room.

The Power of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a marvel in the baking world, known for its light, flaky layers. Each layer puffs up beautifully when baked, creating a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with smooth fillings like the sweet apple mix. Not only is it easy to work with, but it also elevates simple ingredients into something exceptional, making your apple caramel empanadas feel gourmet.

Spice It Up!

While this recipe uses cinnamon, feel free to experiment with other spices. Nutmeg, allspice, or even a pinch of ginger can add warmth and depth to your filling. Personalized spice blends can make the dish uniquely yours, allowing you to tailor the flavors to match your preferences or any seasonal themes.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Caramel Empanadas are delightful on their own, but they shine even brighter with accompaniments. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Pairing them with a spiced hot tea or mulled cider creates the perfect cozy atmosphere, turning simple desserts into a festive occasion.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, but adjust the sugar based on their sweetness.

2. My filling is too thick – what can I do?
If your filling seems overly thick, add a splash of apple juice or water while cooking to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

3. Can I use homemade pastry instead of puff pastry?
Absolutely! Just be sure your dough is rolled out thinly enough to allow for proper puffing while baking.

4. How do I prevent the empanadas from leaking filling?
Ensure you crimp the edges tightly to seal the empanadas well. If you experience leaks, reduce the amount of filling in each pastry.

5. Can I make these empanadas savory?
Definitely! Swap out the apples for savory ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or meats and adjust seasonings accordingly.

6. How can I store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

7. Is it possible to scale this recipe up or down?
Yes! The recipe can be easily adjusted based on how many empanadas you need. Just multiply or divide the ingredient quantities accordingly.

8. Can I freeze the uncooked empanadas?
Certainly! Assemble the empanadas and freeze them on a baking tray before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Apple Caramel Empanadas are a lovely way to celebrate the flavors of fall while indulging in a sweet, satisfying treat. With a combination of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, they come together perfectly to create an unforgettable dessert. Share them with friends and family or keep them all to yourself — either way, these empanadas are sure to bring joy to your table. So, grab your apples and puff pastry, and delight in the delectable experience that awaits you in every bite!