If you’ve been searching for a comforting, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, look no further than The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe. This delightful dessert brings together tender, spiced apples wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust that bakes to perfection. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the gentle sweetness of cinnamon and nutmeg-kissed apples. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these empanadas never fail to impress with their inviting aroma and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create magic in the kitchen. Each element in this recipe plays a crucial role: the flour and butter form a tender, flaky crust, while the apples and spices provide a rich, comforting filling bursting with flavor and aroma.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for a tender, flaky dough that holds the filling beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a light lift to keep the crust from turning tough.
- ½ teaspoon salt: A subtle enhancer that balances sweetness in the dough.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Gives a touch of sweetness to the crust for a richer flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Key for that melt-in-your-mouth flakiness.
- ½ cup cold water: Helps bring the dough together without making it sticky.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a hint of tang and tenderness to the dough.
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced: The heart of the filling, offering juicy, fresh flavor.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apples.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Warms the filling with its familiar, cozy spice.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle complexity and depth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Sweetens and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it stays perfectly set inside the empanadas.
- 1 tablespoon water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth texture.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the empanadas a gorgeous golden finish.
- Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling): Adds a delicate sparkling crunch on top.
How to Make The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by combining your flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl, whisking them evenly. Then, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs — this step is essential for getting that flaky texture. Slowly add the cold water and apple cider vinegar, mixing just until a dough forms. Be gentle and avoid overworking it. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes, which helps the dough relax and become easier to roll out.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough rests, stir together the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and release their juices. Next, dissolve the cornstarch in water and mix it into the apple mixture. Continue cooking just until thickened, then remove from heat and let it cool completely — this cooling prevents soggy empanadas.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
Once your dough is chilled, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough out to about 1/8 inch thickness, then use a round cutter or a glass to cut circles roughly 4 to 5 inches wide. Spoon a small amount of the cooled filling into the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly. Use a fork to crimp the edges — not only does this seal in the filling, but it also gives your empanadas a charming, rustic look.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the empanadas on your prepared baking sheet, brush each with the beaten egg to achieve that stunning golden sheen, and sprinkle with granulated sugar if you desire extra sparkle and sweetness. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, keeping an eye on them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The kitchen will start to fill with the most heavenly apple and spice aroma, signaling it’s time to enjoy!
How to Serve The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate your empanadas from delicious to truly decadent. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast that balances the warm spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
These empanadas are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or even a mellow hot cider can create a delightful dessert experience that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your batch into a festive treat by arranging empanadas on a beautiful platter with edible flowers or fresh apple slices. For gatherings, consider offering small dipping bowls with sauces such as honey, dark chocolate ganache, or even a tangy fruit compote to add variety and fun for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You’ll be happy to know The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe keeps well for a couple of days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these empanadas later, freeze them before baking. Arrange them on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake from frozen with a few additional minutes tacked onto the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your empanadas gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This restores the crispness of the crust beautifully, unlike microwaving which can make them mushy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart and firm apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, you can experiment with sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp for a different twist. Just keep in mind that softer apples may cook down quicker.
Is there a gluten-free version of The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture might be slightly different but delicious nonetheless. Just ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best results.
Can I make the dough and filling in advance?
Definitely! Both the dough and the apple filling can be prepared up to two days ahead. Store the dough tightly wrapped in the fridge and the filling in an airtight container. This makes assembly quick and stress-free on baking day.
What if I don’t have an egg to brush on top?
If you prefer to avoid egg wash, simply brush the empanadas with a little milk or melted butter. The crust won’t be quite as shiny, but still delicious and golden.
How do I prevent soggy empanadas?
The key is to fully cool the filling before assembling and to bake them immediately after. The thickened filling and quick baking at a high temperature ensure a crispy crust with perfectly set apples inside.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for sharing and savoring. Its inviting aroma, delicate crust, and warmly spiced filling create a dessert that feels both nostalgic and new. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen and heart.
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The Best Baked Apple Empanadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These baked apple empanadas feature a flaky, tender pastry crust filled with a warm, spiced apple filling. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, these empanadas are a delightful dessert or snack that combines comforting autumn flavors with a golden-baked finish.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For the Filling
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
For Assembly
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Then, cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water and apple cider vinegar until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the apples are softened. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness and cut into 4-5 inch circles. Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form half-moons and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake: Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden crust. Optionally sprinkle with granulated sugar for added sweetness and texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Ensure the butter is very cold to create a flaky pastry texture.
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight for convenience.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and the egg wash with a plant-based milk or melted coconut oil for brushing.
- If desired, sprinkle cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar on top before baking for extra flavor.
