If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and excitingly different, you need to try Apple Pie Enchiladas. This innovative twist on traditional apple pie combines the rich flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the sweet, gooey goodness of a baked enchilada. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe step by step, and explore how to make it at home.
What Are Apple Pie Enchiladas?
Apple Pie Enchiladas are a fusion dessert that brings together the best of two beloved dishes: apple pie and enchiladas. In this recipe, tortillas are filled with a sweet cinnamon apple filling, rolled up, and baked in a sauce made from butter, sugar, and cinnamon. The result is a dish that’s warm, decadent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the filling:
- 3 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the enchilada assembly:
- 6-8 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the apples are soft and the mixture is bubbly. Set aside.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Pour the melted butter into a shallow dish.
- Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate small bowl.
- Lay a tortilla on a flat surface and spoon a generous amount of the apple filling into the center. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and apple filling.
- Make the Topping Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter and stir in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved, then pour evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tortillas are golden and the topping is bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the apple pie enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie Enchiladas
- Choose the Right Apples: Use apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. These varieties provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional spices like ground cloves or allspice to add more depth to the flavor.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the apple filling and assemble the enchiladas the night before, and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, pour the topping sauce over them and bake as instructed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: While it may sound complicated, this dish is simple to make and requires just a few basic ingredients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it warm with ice cream, cold with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or with a drizzle of caramel sauce, the possibilities are endless.
- Family-Friendly: This is a dessert that both adults and kids will enjoy. The sweet apples paired with the soft tortillas make it a hit for all ages.
Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Enchiladas are a creative, crowd-pleasing dessert that puts a spin on the classic apple pie. Perfect for a holiday gathering, family dinner, or a weekend treat, this recipe combines the best flavors of fall with a Mexican twist. The combination of soft tortillas, warm apple filling, and sweet cinnamon sauce makes every bite irresistible.
Serving and Storage Tips for Apple Pie Enchiladas
Ensuring that your Apple Pie Enchiladas are served at their best and properly stored can enhance the overall experience. Here are some expert tips for serving and storing your delicious dessert:
Serving Tips
- Serve Warm: Apple Pie Enchiladas are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. The warm apple filling and gooey cinnamon topping are what make this dessert so comforting.
- Add a Sweet Finish: For an extra touch of indulgence, top your enchiladas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the spiced apples.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance and a bit more sweetness to the dish.
- Serve with a Beverage: Pair the enchiladas with a hot beverage like cinnamon-spiced coffee, chai tea, or even a warm apple cider to enhance the flavors of the dessert.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Apple Pie Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container to avoid condensation.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the enchiladas for a longer period, freezing is an option. Place the cooled enchiladas in an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the texture may not be as crisp as when baked.
- Avoid Overheating: If reheating in the microwave, be careful not to overheat as this can make the tortillas soggy and the filling overly soft.
Pro Tip for Serving Later
If you’re preparing Apple Pie Enchiladas ahead of time for a gathering, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to serve, pour the topping sauce over them and bake as directed.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Apple Pie Enchiladas stay delicious and enjoyable whether you’re serving them right after baking or enjoying leftovers days later.
1. Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe? Yes, absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tartness and firmness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor. Choose apples that will hold their shape during baking to maintain the best texture.
2. Can I make the apple filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the enchiladas. This can save you time and make the assembly process quicker.
3. How do I make this dessert gluten-free? To make Apple Pie Enchiladas gluten-free, substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the sugar and butter, are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this dessert without any gluten concerns.
4. Can I freeze Apple Pie Enchiladas? Yes, you can freeze them! Once baked and cooled, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store them in an airtight, freezer-safe container. They will keep in the freezer for 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
PrintApple Pie Enchiladas
Apple Pie Enchiladas are a fun twist on traditional apple pie, blending sweet, spiced apple filling with soft flour tortillas, then baking them to golden perfection in a caramel sauce. This quick and easy dessert is perfect for any occasion and tastes amazing served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas: 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling (or about 4 cups homemade apple pie filling) 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas 1 tsp ground cinnamon For the Sauce: 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup water 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Assemble the enchiladas: Spoon about 1/2 cup of apple pie filling onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon. Roll up the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides to seal, and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with all tortillas. Prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Pour the sauce: Pour the warm sauce evenly over the enchiladas in the baking dish, ensuring they’re coated. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the enchiladas are golden. Serve: Let the enchiladas cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
For a twist, add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the apple pie filling before assembling the enchiladas. If you like your enchiladas extra saucy, double the sauce recipe. You can use homemade apple pie filling for a fresher taste.