When it comes to comforting desserts, few things rival the warm, spiced sweetness of baked apple empanadas. Whether you’re an empanada enthusiast or trying them for the first time, this simple yet flavorful dessert is sure to become a seasonal staple.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make apple empanadas from scratch, get helpful baking tips, and see why this recipe is a must-have—especially during the fall and holiday seasons.
What Are Apple Empanadas?
Empanadas are hand-held pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings. Originating in Spain and Latin America, they’re beloved for their versatility and portability.
Apple empanadas are dessert-style pastries filled with a cinnamon-spiced apple mixture, folded into half-moons, sealed, and baked to golden perfection. Unlike fried versions, baked empanadas are lighter but just as delicious—making them a wholesome and cozy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly instructions
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Delicious Flavor: Like mini apple pies—fun and flavorful
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, brunch, potlucks, or weekend baking
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Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or drizzle with caramel for extra flair
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
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2 cups diced apples (peeled – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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¼ cup brown sugar
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Pinch of salt
For the Dough
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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1 tbsp sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
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1 egg
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¼ to ⅓ cup ice-cold water
Optional for Finishing
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1 egg (for egg wash)
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Cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling)
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Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
How to Make Baked Apple Empanadas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt.
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Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until apples are tender but not mushy.
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Stir in cornstarch and cook until thickened (about 2 minutes).
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Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
Pro Tip: Cooling the filling helps prevent soggy dough when assembling.
Step 2: Make the Dough
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In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
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Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
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Add the beaten egg.
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Gradually mix in ice-cold water until dough comes together.
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Form into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness on a floured surface.
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Cut into 4–5 inch circles.
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Spoon cooled apple filling into the center of each circle.
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Fold into a half-moon, seal edges with a fork.
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Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (if using).
Step 4: Bake
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Let cool slightly. Drizzle with caramel if desired.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Ideas
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Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
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Enjoy with chai or a spiced latte
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Top with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar
Storage Tips
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
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Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days; reheat before serving
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes
Tips for Success
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Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the perfect sweet-tart balance
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Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause leaks
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Crimp edges well and use egg wash to seal
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Chill dough and filling for easier assembly
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, pie crust or puff pastry can be used, but homemade dough offers superior flavor and texture.
2. What are the best apples to use?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples—firm and flavorful varieties are best.
3. Can I freeze baked empanadas?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container and reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
4. How do I prevent leaks while baking?
Avoid overfilling and seal edges tightly with a fork. Egg wash helps create a stronger seal.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute and check all ingredients for gluten content.
6. What can I substitute for brown sugar?
White sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup all work, with slight flavor differences.
7. Are these empanadas vegan?
Not as written, but they can be made vegan with plant-based butter and a flax egg.
8. Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Absolutely! Try chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for added texture and depth.
9. How can I make them sweeter?
Increase sugar slightly or glaze with simple syrup after baking.
10. Can they be served cold?
They’re best warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Final Thoughts
Baked apple empanadas blend the comfort of apple pie with the convenience of handheld pastries. With a flaky crust, warm filling, and optional caramel drizzle, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you’re craving a cozy homemade treat, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your rolling pin, preheat the oven, and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and cinnamon.
Your guests—and your taste buds—will thank you.
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