Description
These Caramel Apple Empanadas are the perfect handheld dessert—flaky, golden pastry pockets filled with tender apples, rich caramel, and warm cinnamon. Baked (or fried!) to perfection, they’re a fall favorite that’s delicious any time of year.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
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2 cups peeled, diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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1/8 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
For the Dough:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
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1 egg
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1/3 cup cold water (more as needed)
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1 teaspoon vinegar
For Assembly:
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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Optional: cinnamon sugar for topping
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Optional: extra caramel sauce for dipping
Instructions
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Make the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are tender and mixture is thick. Stir in caramel sauce and let cool.
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Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Whisk egg, water, and vinegar in a small bowl, then add to the flour mixture. Mix just until combined. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
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Assemble the empanadas: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thick. Cut into 4–5 inch circles. Add 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
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Bake or fry:
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To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if using. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
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To fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry empanadas in batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden. Drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and enjoy warm!
Notes
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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You can use store-bought pie dough for a shortcut.
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Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or chopped pecans for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg