Next, I roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface, ensuring they are nice and smooth. I cut each crust into circles, usually about 5 inches in diameter. It’s okay if they aren’t perfect; a little rustic charm adds to the homemade feel! I place a generous spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each circle. Now comes the fun part—folding! I fold the crust over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tightly.
After that, I whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash, which gives the empanadas that golden, glossy finish when baked. I brush this mixture over the top of each empanada before placing them in the oven. I bake them for about 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden brown and puffed up. The smell is simply irresistible, and I can’t help but sneak a peek in the oven every few minutes!
Once they’re done, I let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling them with additional caramel sauce and dusting with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. The first bite is always my favorite—crunchy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways before landing on the perfect blend of flavors and textures. One time, I tried using ready-made caramel candy, which resulted in a chewy filling, while the caramel sauce gives that delightful gooeyness that just sings! I recommend using fresh apples for the best taste; Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness that balances out the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Also, I learned the hard way to avoid overstuffing the empanadas. The filling is delicious, but too much of it can cause the empanadas to burst open while baking. Trust me, I had a bit of a mess the first time I went heavy-handed! Instead, aim for about 2 tablespoons of filling per empanada for the perfect balance.
Finally, the egg wash is essential for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown hue. I’ve forgotten it once or twice and ended up with pale empanadas that didn’t have the same eye-catching look. A little effort goes a long way!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using frozen pie crusts without thawing them properly. I accidentally tried to roll out a frozen crust once, which resulted in a tear. Always give them ample time to come to room temperature so you can easily manipulate them without breaking! (See the next page below to continue…)
Another mistake to watch out for is not crimping the edges securely. I remember my very first batch exploding in the oven because I skipped this step! Make sure to seal them well, and if you have extra dough, you can make little decorations on top just for fun.
And you don’t want to skip the resting time after baking! I know the temptation to dig in right away is strong, but letting them cool slightly allows the filling to set a bit so it won’t ooze out on your first bite. Patience is a virtue when it comes to these treats!
Serving Suggestions
These caramel apple empanadas are perfect on their own, but I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the empanada combined with cold, creamy ice cream is a match made in heaven! If you’re really feeling indulgent, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce on top, too; it’s an extraordinary touch.
For a cozy gathering, I like to create a dessert bar where guests can customize their empanadas. Set out different toppings like whipped cream, chopped nuts, or extra caramel sauce. It’s a fun way to let everyone get creative and make their empanadas just how they like them.
Lastly, these empanadas are great for brunch! I often pair them with coffee and warm cider for a delightful morning treat. There’s just something about biting into a warm pastry that starts the day perfectly.
Variations & Customizations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can mix in different spices like nutmeg or allspice if you want to add more warmth to the flavors. You can also incorporate raisins or nuts for added texture. Personally, I like to add a small handful of chopped pecans to the filling for that extra crunch and flavor.
If you’re looking for a twist, consider swapping out the apples for another fruit, like pears or peaches. Each fruit brings a different flavor profile that can completely change the dessert. I once made a batch with quince, and it was a delightful surprise!
You can also try making these empanadas with chocolate filling instead of fruit. Just melt some chocolate chips and mix them with a bit of cream for a rich filling. Serving these with a raspberry sauce could balance out the sweetness beautifully!
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the pastry won’t have the same crispy texture after being refrigerated, but they’ll still taste great!
To freeze, I suggest placing the unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. You can keep them frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake them, simply add a few minutes to the baking time straight from the freezer.
Reheating them can be done in the oven to retain some of that flaky pastry goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You could also pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up, but just be aware the pastry might get a bit soft.
Conclusion
Making Copycat Taco Bell Caramel Apple Empanadas is such a delightful experience that fills my home with warmth and sweetness. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or sharing them with friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles. I hope you enjoy creating them as much as I do, and who knows, they might just become a staple in your kitchen too! Happy baking!