**Introduction:**
In the world of culinary innovation, the air fryer has emerged as a game-changer, offering a healthier and more efficient way to prepare your favorite dishes. One such delightful creation that has taken the air fryer community by storm is the recipe for Air Fryer Caramel Apple Empanadas. This delectable treat combines the comforting flavors of caramel and apple within a flaky, golden pastry shell, all achieved with a fraction of the traditional deep-frying oil.
Air fryers have revolutionized how we approach cooking, and this recipe is a testament to their versatility. It allows you to enjoy the indulgent taste of deep-fried empanadas without the guilt of excessive oil consumption. In this delectable dessert, the air fryer becomes your culinary partner, crisping and caramelizing each empanada to perfection while keeping the calorie count in check.
The key to this mouthwatering dessert lies in its simplicity and the careful balance of ingredients. The empanadas start with a foundation of refrigerated pie crusts, which provide a flaky and buttery exterior. Within this golden cocoon, a sumptuous filling of apple pie and unwrapped caramels meld together, creating a gooey, sweet center that embodies the essence of fall flavors.
To enhance the overall experience, the empanadas are brushed with melted butter and dusted with a sugary-cinnamon mixture. This final touch ensures a perfect blend of textures and tastes, as the air fryer works its magic, transforming the humble turnovers into crispy, caramelized masterpieces.
The beauty of this recipe is that it caters to both novice and experienced home cooks. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that will impress family and friends, making you the star of any gathering or special occasion. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the art of crafting Air Fryer Caramel Apple Empanadas, the delightful fusion of convenience and deliciousness in one delectable bite.
**Recipe for Air Fryer Caramel Apple Empanadas**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 refrigerated pie crusts (totaling 30 ounces), from two 15 oz boxes
– 21 ounces of apple pie filling
– 11 ounces of unwrapped caramels
– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple pie filling and unwrapped caramels. Stir frequently until the mixture is fully melted. Remove from heat and set it aside.
2. Unroll each pie crust and use a large coffee mug or a 4″ round cookie cutter to cut out 5 circles from each crust, resulting in a total of 20 circles.
3. Place approximately a tablespoon of the apple pie filling and caramel mixture into the center of each dough round.
4. Carefully fold each circle in half to create a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges together to seal the empanadas.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (or use a small saucepan over low heat), and then brush it onto each empanada.
6. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle this mixture over each empanada.
7. Cook the empanadas in batches by placing them into the basket of an air fryer. Cook for 10 minutes at 330°F. Be cautious not to overcrowd the air fryer, as cooking times may vary depending on the appliance. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not burn.
8. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batches of empanadas. Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Caramel Apple Empanadas!