Caramel Apple Empanadas

Name: Caramel Apple Empanadas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup caramel sauce; 1 egg (for egg wash); Extra sugar for sprinkling

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to indulge in the sweet flavors of fall with these delectable Caramel Apple Empanadas. Bursting with warm spiced apples and rich caramel, these flaky pastries are the perfect handheld dessert for any autumn gathering or a cozy evening at home. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling:

3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/4 cup caramel sauce

For Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)

Extra sugar for sprinkling

Directions:

Make the Dough:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.

Add the cold, cubed butter and mix using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.

Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften.

Stir in the cornstarch and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and stir in the caramel sauce. Let the filling cool.

Assemble the Empanadas:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out 4-5 inch circles using a cookie cutter or a small bowl.

Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the apple-caramel filling onto the center of each dough circle.

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake:

Beat the egg and brush it over the empanadas. Sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Tips:

Warm is Best: Serve the empanadas warm for the best flavor and texture. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Dipping Sauces: Offer additional caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream on the side for dipping or drizzling. A dollop of whipped cream also adds a nice touch.

Garnish: Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon before serving for an attractive presentation.

Pairings: These empanadas pair well with warm drinks like cider, coffee, or chai tea, enhancing the cozy fall experience.

Storage Tips:

At Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the empanadas within a day or two, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture and keep the crust crispy.

Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing: To freeze empanadas, let them cool completely after baking, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating from Frozen: To reheat frozen empanadas, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them straight from the freezer for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.

Related Recipes:

Apple Pie Bars

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, feel free to use any variety you prefer. Some great alternatives include Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold up during cooking.

Can I make the empanada dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the empanada dough in advance. After forming the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling it out.

What can I substitute for caramel sauce?

If you don’t have caramel sauce on hand, you can use dulce de leche or even a homemade caramel sauce. If you want a healthier option, consider using a fruit spread or fruit puree, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?

Yes, this recipe is designed for baking, which is a healthier alternative to frying. Baking allows the empanadas to develop a crispy crust without the added oil. Just make sure to brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish!

Conclusion:

This recipe for Caramel Apple Empanadas not only captures the essence of fall but also offers a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy creating this delicious treat that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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