Air Fryer Caramel Apple Empanadas are a throwback Taco Bell copycat made even better! Store-bought crust with an apple pie filling and melted caramel candies comes together quickly, then air fried (or baked) until golden on the outside and thick and syrupy on the inside. Topped with cinnamon sugar, these easy 30-minute dessert empanadas are the best!
To a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the apple pie filling and caramels. Stir frequently until fully melted.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Unroll each pie crust and use a large coffee mug or cookie cutter (4" round) to cut out 5 circles per pie crust for 20 total.
Place approximately a tablespoon of the filling into the middle of each dough round.
Carefully fold over the circle and pinch the edges together to seal.
In a microwave safe bowl, melt the butter (or in a small saucepan over low heat) and brush onto each empanada.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over each empanada.
In batches, place the empanadas into the basket of an air fryer and cook for 10 minutes at 330°. Don't overcrowd. Air fryers can differ greatly so keep an eye to make sure they are not burning.
Repeat with remaining batches.
Notes
Oven Directions: You can bake these in a 350° F preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up 3 days.If you have any leftover filling it is delicious over vanilla ice cream.