Who doesn’t love the warm, gooey goodness of a caramel apple empanada? If you’ve ever tried Taco Bell’s caramel apple empanada, you know it’s a dessert worth craving. But what if you could make something even better at home? Imagine flaky, golden pastry filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and a drizzle of caramel—sounds like heaven, right?
In this post, I’ll show you how to recreate this iconic treat with a homemade twist. Whether you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s version or just love apple empanadas, this recipe is for you. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Empanada Recipe
Before we get to the recipe, let’s talk about why this dessert is a must-try:
- Perfect for fall (or any season): Apples and caramel are a match made in dessert heaven, especially when wrapped in a crispy, flaky crust.
- Easy to make: No fancy skills required—just a few simple steps and you’re golden.
- Customizable: Add extra spices, swap caramel for chocolate, or even make them mini for bite-sized treats.
Caramel Apple Empanada Recipe
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 4 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or piloncillo for an authentic touch
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Turbinado sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Make the Apple Filling: Peel and dice the apples into small pieces. In a saucepan, combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool. Stir in the caramel sauce for that extra gooey goodness.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Roll the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles (about 5-6 inches in diameter) using a bowl or cookie cutter. Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork or crimping with your fingers.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: The filling can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, and the dough disks can be frozen for up to a month.
- Shortcut: Use store-bought frozen empanada discs to save time.
- Freezing: Baked empanadas can be frozen and reheated for later enjoyment.
Images Credit: Isabel Eats
Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Empanadas
- Use cold butter: This ensures a flaky, tender crust.
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the empanadas to burst open.
- Get creative: Add chopped nuts, a dash of vanilla, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
Tips & Variations
- Add Cream Cheese: For a creamy twist, mix a dollop of cream cheese into the apple filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for extra warmth.
- Serve with Sauce: Pair these empanadas with caramel sauce, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
- Experiment with Fruits: Swap apples for pears, peaches, or berries for a different flavor profile.
- Perfect for Parties: These empanadas are great for holiday gatherings, game day snacks, or dessert tables.
Enjoy these Baked Apple Empanadas as a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall!
How Does This Compare to Taco Bell’s Caramel Apple Empanada?
If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s caramel apple empanada, you’ll love this homemade version. While Taco Bell’s treat is delicious, this recipe lets you control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a warm, freshly baked empanada straight from your oven.
Serving Suggestions
- With ice cream: Serve warm empanadas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert.
- Drizzle extra caramel: Go all out with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
- Pair with coffee: These empanadas make a perfect afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the combination of apples, caramel, and flaky pastry. Whether you’re making these for a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s make some caramel apple empanadas that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never look at Taco Bell’s version the same way again.
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Homemade Crema Mexicana Recipe
- Pozole Blanco: A Traditional Mexican Soup
- Ensalada de Pollo: Mexican Chicken Salad
- Crispy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
- Queso Blanco Recipe: Creamy Cheese Dip
- Mexican Lentil Soup (Lentejas)
- Bean and Cheese Tamales Recipe
- Mexican Tres Leches Latte Coffee
- Huevos Divorciados – Classic Mexican Breakfast
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.
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