Apple empanadas are a beloved treat that bring together the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and buttery pastry in a hand-held form. Think of them as the cousin of apple pie, but far more portable and perfect for individual servings. Their flaky crust gives way to a warm, sweet, and slightly spiced apple filling that makes them irresistible whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed later with a cup of coffee. These empanadas are versatile enough to be enjoyed for dessert, breakfast, or even as a snack during the day. They are also wonderful for gatherings because they can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed, filling your kitchen with that heavenly aroma of baked apples and cinnamon. Apple empanadas bring tradition, comfort, and indulgence all in one delightful pastry pocket.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• ½ cup (115 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 large egg

• 3 tablespoons cold water

• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon butter for filling

• 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon milk

Cooking Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Add the egg and water gradually, mixing just until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften and caramelize slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

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

5. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness. Cut into circles about 4–5 inches in diameter.

6. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold into a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.

7. Mix the egg yolk and milk, then brush the tops of the empanadas with this egg wash.

8. Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Let cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 220

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Protein: 3 g

• Fat: 10 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 12 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is one of those gems that appeals to both kids and adults. You’ll love it because it gives you all the satisfaction of apple pie without the hassle of slicing and serving. Each empanada is a self-contained dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile. The buttery crust combined with the spiced apple filling makes them rich yet comforting, while their size makes portion control easier. They’re also perfect for parties, holidays, or simply when you want something sweet but not overly complicated.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Empanadas trace their roots back to Spain and Portugal, where they were originally made as savory pastries filled with meats and vegetables. As the recipe spread through Latin America, empanadas took on many local variations, ranging from beef-filled Argentinian empanadas to Caribbean versions with seafood. Sweet empanadas like this apple version became popular later, especially as families adapted traditional savory recipes to include seasonal fruits. The apple empanada, in particular, was inspired by the abundance of apples in North America and Europe, as well as the universal love for apple pie. It’s a beautiful blend of Old World tradition and New World ingredients.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apples are the heart of this recipe. Granny Smith apples provide a tart bite that balances the sweetness of the sugar, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples lend natural sweetness and juiciness. Using a mix of both creates a more layered flavor. Cinnamon and nutmeg are key spices here, adding warmth and depth that complement the apples perfectly. Butter is essential for both the crust and filling, creating richness and ensuring flakiness. Finally, the egg wash not only seals the empanadas but also gives them that glossy, golden bakery-style finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Apple empanadas store beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, which restores their crisp texture. Avoid microwaving them, as this tends to make the crust soft and soggy. If you want to freeze them, assemble the empanadas without baking and place them on a tray in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.

Common Variations to Try

Apple empanadas are highly adaptable. You can mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apple filling for added sweetness and texture. For a more indulgent version, add a drizzle of caramel sauce inside the filling, creating caramel apple empanadas. Cheese lovers can fold a spoonful of cream cheese into the filling for a creamy surprise. If you’re a spice enthusiast, adding cardamom or allspice brings a deeper, more complex flavor. For a festive twist, you can even dust them with cinnamon sugar right after baking.

Pairing Recommendations

These empanadas pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat. For dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also go well with hot chocolate on a cold evening. If you want to elevate them for a dinner party, pair them with a glass of dessert wine such as Moscato or a sparkling cider. The crisp bubbles cut through the richness of the pastry while enhancing the apple flavor.

Health Benefits

Although empanadas are an indulgence, they do come with some nutritional perks. Apples are rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full. They also provide vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune health. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. By baking instead of frying these empanadas, you reduce the fat content while still achieving a golden crust. For an even healthier twist, you can use whole wheat flour for added fiber or reduce the sugar slightly without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Apple empanadas are more than just a dessert—they are a symbol of culinary tradition and comfort food rolled into one. With their buttery, flaky crust and warm spiced apple filling, they capture the essence of homemade goodness. They’re perfect for gatherings, easy to prepare ahead of time, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a dessert, or even breakfast, these empanadas are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again, experimenting with different variations and pairings to suit your taste. They’re proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most unforgettable.