Name: Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American/Latin Fusion
Ingredients: 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 package premade pie dough or empanada wrappers; 1/3 cup caramel sauce; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour (optional)

If you’ve never tried Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas before, prepare to fall in love. I first made these golden pockets of joy on a whim one chilly afternoon, hoping to recreate something warm and nostalgic—and they delivered in every way. Each bite is wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, packed with cinnamon-spiced apples, and finished with a buttery drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t just taste good, it comforts you.

I love how easy these are to whip up, yet they feel like such a treat. Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner, craving something sweet, or just want to impress with minimal effort, this recipe is a winner. The apple filling stays soft and gooey, while the empanada crust crisps up beautifully in the oven or fryer. And when that warm caramel hits the sugar-dusted shell? Pure bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe

You’re going to love this recipe because it checks every box. It’s easy, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. The ingredients are mostly pantry staples, and the method is forgiving—even if you’re not a seasoned baker. It’s a great make-ahead dessert, and the handheld format makes it perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Apple Empanadas?

You can go with homemade empanada dough if you have the time, but I often use pre-made pie crusts or refrigerated empanada wrappers for ease. Pie dough gives you that tender, buttery flake, while empanada wrappers are more structured and fry up crispier. Either works beautifully here. Just be sure they’re not too thin, or your filling might break through during baking or frying.

Options for Substitutions

Want to make it your own? Swap the apples for pears or peaches for a slightly different twist. No caramel sauce on hand? Warm dulce de leche works just as well. You can also use a plant-based butter and pre-made vegan dough for a dairy-free version. And if cinnamon isn’t your thing, try cardamom or a pinch of nutmeg to change the spice profile. Flexibility is one of the best parts of this treat.

Ingredients for This Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas Recipe

Apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): These offer a tart and firm texture that holds up beautifully during cooking.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the apples caramelize while cooking.
Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and cozy flavor to the filling.
Butter: For richness and a smooth, glossy apple mixture.
Premade pie dough or empanada wrappers: Saves time while still providing a flaky or crispy crust.
Caramel sauce: A luscious drizzle that enhances the dessert with buttery sweetness.
Egg (for egg wash): Helps the pastry achieve a shiny, golden finish.
Cinnamon sugar (for dusting): Adds a touch of sparkle and crunch to the crust.
Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and prevents the apples from browning.
All-purpose flour (optional, to thicken filling): Helps absorb extra juice from apples.

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and dice your apples into small, even cubes. Toss them into a saucepan with butter, sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized. If the mixture is too runny, stir in a teaspoon of flour to help thicken it. Let the filling cool before using.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

If you’re using pie dough, roll it out slightly on a floured surface. Cut into circles about 4-5 inches wide using a biscuit cutter, glass, or small bowl. Empanada wrappers can be used as-is if pre-cut. Keep the dough chilled until you’re ready to fill.

Step 3: Fill and Seal

Spoon a tablespoon or two of the apple filling onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, and use a fork to crimp the edges tightly. This keeps the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Step 4: Chill the Empanadas

Place the filled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This helps firm them up and prevents them from opening while baking or frying.

Step 5: Cook the Empanadas

You can either bake or fry them:

To bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the empanadas with an egg wash and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
To fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry the empanadas for 2–3 minutes per side until crisp and golden.

Step 6: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar and Caramel

While still warm, sprinkle each empanada with cinnamon sugar. Then drizzle generously with caramel sauce right before serving for that final irresistible touch.

How Long to Prepare the Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas

Preparation Time: Most of your active time will be spent peeling and cooking the apples, and then assembling the empanadas. Expect about 25–30 minutes for prep if you’re using pre-made dough. This includes cooking the filling, cutting the dough, and assembling the pastries.

Cooking Time: Baking takes around 20–25 minutes, while frying can be as quick as 5–6 minutes total. Add a few minutes for chilling the empanadas before cooking to help them hold their shape better.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas

Let the apple filling cool completely before stuffing the dough—this helps prevent soggy bottoms.
Don’t overfill! It might be tempting, but too much filling causes the dough to tear or leak.
Use a fork to firmly crimp the edges for a tight seal.
Brushing with egg wash creates a beautiful golden finish when baking.
If frying, drain on paper towels and serve warm for the best texture.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the chilling step: Warm dough tends to lose its shape in the oven or fryer.
Using too much moisture: Too juicy of a filling can cause the crust to become soggy.
Poorly sealed edges: Can lead to the filling escaping during cooking.
Undercooked apples: Make sure they’re tender and slightly caramelized before using.
Frying at low heat: This can cause the empanadas to absorb too much oil instead of crisping up.

What to Serve With Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

Nothing beats the combo of warm empanadas and cold ice cream. A scoop on the side instantly elevates this dessert.

2. Whipped Cream

Fresh, lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like contrast to the crispy pastry.

3. Hot Apple Cider

A cozy drink that matches the flavor profile and season of the dish.

4. Spiced Chai Tea

The warming spices complement the cinnamon in the empanadas beautifully.

5. Salted Caramel Latte

Leaning into the caramel theme, this drink pairs wonderfully with the dessert’s rich notes.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to re-crisp.

Freezing: You can freeze unbaked empanadas. Freeze them flat on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Reheating: Avoid the microwave for reheating if possible—it softens the crust. A toaster oven or conventional oven maintains the best texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values may vary based on dough and caramel brands used.

Calories: ~210 per empanada
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the empanadas from getting soggy?

Let the filling cool completely and avoid overfilling. Chilling before baking or frying also helps.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and refrigerate them a day ahead or freeze them unbaked.

What apples work best for empanadas?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Is it better to bake or fry them?

Both methods work—baking is easier and less messy, while frying gives a crispier texture.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Absolutely. Store-bought caramel saves time and works beautifully for drizzling.

Conclusion

Sweet Caramel Apple Empanadas are the kind of dessert that feels special without requiring too much effort. With warm, cinnamon-kissed apples wrapped in a flaky or crisp crust and finished with a luxurious caramel drizzle, these handheld treats are as comforting as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging solo with a cup of chai, these empanadas are sure to impress and satisfy.