Is there anything more comforting than the smell of cinnamon and apples bubbling on the stove? When I was a kid, the first sign of fall wasn’t the leaves changing—it was my grandmother simmering apples in cinnamon sugar for her famous pie. Now, I get to share that same nostalgic magic with a twist: caramel apple empanadas. These hand pies are everything you love about classic apple pie, wrapped in golden, flaky dough and fried to perfection. They’re warm, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make, which makes them a perfect treat for gatherings or just a quiet cozy night.
If you’re a fan of caramel, apples, or anything remotely cinnamony, this dessert will quickly become a seasonal staple. In this article, we’ll walk through how to make caramel apple empanadas step-by-step, along with helpful tips, ideas for customization, and even a cinnamon-sugar coating that will knock your socks off. You’ll also discover how this recipe connects with similar creations like churro cheesecake bars and mulberry cheesecake squares—each a celebration of rich fillings and craveable textures.
Caramel Apple Empanadas: Crispy, Creamy, and Full of Fall Flavor
Table of Contents
Why Caramel Apple Empanadas Are a Must-Try
The nostalgic flavor combo that never fails
The combination of caramel, apple, and cinnamon is as iconic as peanut butter and jelly—but with a fall twist that’s downright irresistible. Empanadas might traditionally lean savory, but this dessert version flips the script. A sweet apple cinnamon filling, made with Granny Smith apples for just the right tartness, is balanced beautifully with warm spices and a luscious caramel drizzle. These empanadas bring the same joy as a classic cherry streusel bar, but with a crispier bite.
Unlike full-size pies or cobblers, these handheld pastries are perfect for sharing, storing, or enjoying straight out of the fryer. They also cool down quickly and hold their shape, making them ideal for dessert platters, lunchboxes, or even fall bake sales. Want to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? That caramel drizzle becomes something truly epic.
An approachable recipe for home cooks of all levels
Don’t let the idea of homemade empanadas intimidate you. This recipe simplifies the process with store-bought 5” empanada dough (like Goya’s), making it easier than ever to get that flaky, golden crust without the hassle of kneading or rolling. If you can stir a filling, spoon it into a circle, and fold it shut, you can make these empanadas.
Plus, the dual filling of tart apples and sweetened cream cheese gives these empanadas an indulgent layer of texture and flavor. Much like the creaminess in banana pudding cheesecake, the cream cheese balances the sugary apple filling and caramel topping. And frying them until golden? It seals all that goodness inside.
If you love creative comfort food, this recipe lives in the same cozy category as peach cobbler cookies. It’s rustic yet refined, familiar yet surprising—just the kind of treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Making the Best Caramel Apple Empanadas at Home
Simple ingredients, big flavor
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple. The magic comes from the balance of textures and flavors: tender apples, rich cream cheese, crisp dough, and that cinnamon-sugar sparkle. Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients you’ll need:
- Granny Smith apples: Their tartness balances the sugar and caramel.
- Cornstarch + sugar + water: Creates that glossy, thickened apple glaze.
- Cinnamon + lemon juice: For warmth and brightness.
- Cream cheese filling: Adds depth and creamy contrast to the apples.
- Empanada dough: Use store-bought 5” rounds to keep it easy.
- Vegetable oil: For frying until perfectly golden brown.
- Cinnamon sugar coating: Seals the deal with cozy sweetness.
- Caramel drizzle: Optional—but recommended for that wow factor.
You’ll find the same sense of ease and comfort in other reader favorites like churro cheesecake bars or strawberry shortcake cheesecake rolls—where simple steps come together for a seriously satisfying dessert.
Step-by-step instructions with tips for success
Start by simmering your cornstarch, sugar, and cinnamon until thickened, then stir in your chopped apples. Let them soften and soak up the flavor. Meanwhile, beat the cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice until fluffy.
Spoon one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each dough round, followed by a tablespoon of warm apple filling. Don’t overfill—just enough to get that perfect bite every time.
Moisten the edges, fold, and crimp with a fork. Fry them at 375°F in batches until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels, then immediately roll them in cinnamon sugar. Once cool, drizzle with caramel.
Pro tip: These taste incredible slightly warm, just like a slice of Kentucky Derby pie straight out of the oven.
Variations, Storage, and Holiday Magic
Creative twists to try anytime
Caramel apple empanadas are incredibly versatile, which makes them ideal for customizing to fit your tastes or the season. Want something nuttier? Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling. Craving more caramel? Mix it directly into the cream cheese base for a richer flavor. You can even try a salted caramel drizzle for a savory contrast.
If you’re baking for a crowd, these also work great with other fruit fillings. Try a pear and ginger version, or substitute cherries for a tart variation similar to what you’d find in cherry streusel bars.
Another idea? Skip the frying and use an air fryer or bake them at 375°F until golden. The result is a lighter version that’s still loaded with that signature cinnamon-sugar crunch—like what you’d expect from a pan of peach cobbler cookies, but more portable.
Make-ahead and storage tips
These empanadas store surprisingly well. Once cooled, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. Just pop them in the oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to bring back that crispy magic.
For longer storage, freeze the filled but uncooked empanadas on a parchment-lined tray. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, fry or bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Planning ahead for a party or holiday event? These are a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Set up a dessert station with warm empanadas, caramel sauce, and whipped cream for a DIY treat bar. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing idea similar to the excitement behind strawberry brownies—festive, flavorful, and oh-so-shareable.
Serving Ideas and Sweet Pairings
How to serve them like a pro
Caramel apple empanadas are stunning straight from the fryer, but you can take your presentation to the next level with just a few extras. Arrange them on a rustic wooden platter or parchment-lined tray, dusted with extra cinnamon sugar and a gentle caramel drizzle across the top. For something a little more elegant, serve each empanada with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel or honey.
Want to make it a complete dessert experience? Add them to a fall-themed dessert board alongside mulberry cheesecake squares and Kentucky Derby pie slices. A few candied nuts or apple chips will tie everything together with seasonal flair.
For a festive finish, lightly sprinkle sea salt over the caramel before serving. That little bit of contrast? Game-changer.
Perfect drinks and dessert pairings
These empanadas are sweet, spiced, and rich—so balance them with a drink that refreshes. Hot cider, chai tea, or a vanilla latte are great cozy options. If you’re serving these at a dinner party, a chilled sparkling wine or a crisp Riesling plays beautifully with the caramel and cinnamon notes.
Planning a full fall dessert spread? Include them alongside crowd-pleasers like banana pudding cheesecake or strawberry shortcake cheesecake rolls. These pairings create a dessert table that feels thoughtfully seasonal but wildly indulgent.
No matter how you serve them—warm from the fryer or chilled from the fridge—these caramel apple empanadas are the kind of dessert people remember. They combine the comfort of a classic with the creativity of a modern treat, all wrapped up in a handheld golden crust.
FAQs
Can you bake caramel apple empanadas instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them at 375°F for 18–22 minutes until golden. Brush with egg wash for shine and coat in cinnamon sugar after baking.
How long do caramel apple empanadas last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Can I use puff pastry instead of empanada dough?
You can! Puff pastry will be flakier and more delicate. Just be sure to seal the edges well to avoid leaks.
What’s the best caramel for drizzling?
Use a thick store-bought or homemade caramel. Salted caramel adds a delicious balance to the sweet filling.
Caramel Apple Empanadas: Crispy, Creamy, and Full of Fall Flavor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Golden fried caramel apple empanadas with a sweet cream cheese center and cinnamon sugar coating—perfect for fall desserts.
Ingredients
Apple Cinnamon Filling
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, chopped (about 4 cups)
1½ cups water
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cream Cheese Mixture
8 oz cream cheese (room temp)
⅓ cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
Other
11.6 oz empanada dough (5” rounds, Goya preferred)
1½–2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine water, cornstarch, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir constantly until thickened (3–4 minutes).
2. Add chopped apples and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
4. Place 1 tbsp of cream cheese in the center of each dough round. Top with 1 tbsp of apple filling.
5. Moisten edges of dough, fold in half, and crimp with a fork.
6. Heat oil to 375°F in a deep skillet. Fry empanadas in batches until golden on both sides.
7. Remove and drain on paper towels.
8. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Roll warm empanadas in mixture.
9. Drizzle with caramel and serve.
Notes
Make ahead: Freeze filled empanadas raw. Fry or bake straight from frozen.
To bake: Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 355
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 19mg
Conclusion
Caramel apple empanadas are everything you want in a fall dessert: warm, spiced, slightly tart, and satisfyingly crisp. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight treat or a seasonal gathering, they’re sure to steal the show. With rich cream cheese, sweet cinnamon apples, and that signature golden shell, each bite is a celebration of comfort food done right.
Try them once—and like so many other readers who loved peach cobbler cookies or churro cheesecake bars—you’ll be hooked.
