Indulge in Delicious Caramel Apple Empanadas Today!

Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry shell filled with a luscious blend of tender apples, cinnamon, and a creamy cream cheese center – that’s the magic of Caramel Apple Empanadas. These irresistible treats combine the comforting flavors of fall with the irresistible texture of homemade empanadas, creating a dessert that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these Caramel Apple Empanadas are the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Empanadas

Apple Cinnamon Filling:

• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small chunks (about 4 cups)
• 1½ cups water
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cream Cheese Mixture:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Empanadas:

• 11.6 ounces 5″ empanada dough (I used Goya)
• 1½-2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon

Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Filling

To create the delectable Caramel Apple Empanada filling, start by combining the chopped Granny Smith apples, water, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens. Once the filling has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This rich and tangy cream cheese filling will perfectly complement the sweet apple flavor in the Caramel Apple Empanadas.

Assembling the Empanadas

To assemble the Caramel Apple Empanadas, lay out the empanada dough rounds. Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling and a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each dough round. Carefully fold the dough over to enclose the filling, and use a fork to seal the edges.

Frying the Empanadas

In a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the assembled empanadas into the hot oil, frying a few at a time until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once fried, remove the empanadas from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

While the Caramel Apple Empanadas are still warm, toss them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon to create a delightful crunchy coating. This final step adds an extra layer of sweetness and spice, making these empanadas truly irresistible.

Serving and Enjoying

Allow the Caramel Apple Empanadas to cool slightly, then serve them warm and enjoy the perfect balance of flaky pastry, gooey apple filling, and creamy cream cheese center. These empanadas are a wonderful dessert option for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy, indulgent snack.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for Caramel Apple Empanadas?

Granny Smith apples are the ideal choice for Caramel Apple Empanadas. Their tart and crisp flavor helps balance the sweetness of the filling and provides a nice contrast to the rich cream cheese mixture.

Can I make Caramel Apple Empanadas ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can absolutely make Caramel Apple Empanadas in advance and freeze them. Prepare the empanadas up to the frying step, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the empanadas to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, fry the frozen empanadas directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

How do I prevent the empanada filling from leaking while baking?

To prevent the Caramel Apple Empanada filling from leaking during baking, be sure to seal the edges of the dough thoroughly using a fork. Additionally, make sure not to overfill the empanadas, as too much filling can cause it to ooze out during the cooking process.

Are Caramel Apple Empanadas baked or fried?

Caramel Apple Empanadas are typically fried, not baked. The frying process creates a crisp, golden-brown exterior that perfectly complements the soft and gooey interior. However, you can certainly bake the empanadas if you prefer a lighter, less greasy option. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark
• Apple Cider Waffles
• Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Muffins
• Skillet Apple Cider Chicken

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Print