Apple Pie Tacos have completely changed my dessert game, offering all the cozy flavors of a classic apple pie in a fun, handheld package. I remember the first time I tried making them; the aroma of warm cinnamon and caramelized apples filling my kitchen was pure bliss. These aren’t just any dessert tacos with apple pie filling; they’re a crispy, sweet, and creamy delight that’s so much easier than a traditional pie. Trust me, once you try this apple pie taco recipe, you’ll be hooked. Let’s whip up some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Tacos

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful treats. They’re a game-changer for dessert lovers!

• It’s a fun, handheld twist on a classic favorite.
• These are truly easy apple pie tacos that anyone can make.
• The combination of crispy shells and warm, gooey filling is irresistible.
• They’re perfect for parties, holidays, or just a special weeknight treat.
• You get all the comforting flavors of apple pie in a convenient format.
• Making these easy apple pie tacos is quicker than baking a full pie.
• The creamy cream cheese topping adds a delightful tang and richness.
• It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal apples!

Ingredients for Apple Pie Tacos

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating the most delightful apple pie tacos. This recipe makes enough for about six tacos, perfect for a family treat or a small gathering. The components for the apple pie taco filling recipe come together quickly!

• 6 small flour tortillas – for creating those perfect taco shells
• 1 cup oil for frying – vegetable or canola oil works great
• 1 cup cinnamon sugar – a must for coating the fried shells
• 4 apples, diced – Honeycrisp or Fuji are excellent choices for their texture and sweetness
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – to enhance the warm apple flavor
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – divided for the filling and the cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – adds a lovely caramel note to the apples
• 1 tablespoon caramel sauce – for an extra layer of gooey goodness
• 1 tablespoon butter – helps the apples soften and caramelize
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – the base for our creamy topping
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar – to sweeten and smooth the cream cheese mixture

How to Make Apple Pie Tacos

Ready to dive into this fun dessert? Follow these simple steps on how to make apple pie tacos, and you’ll be enjoying them in no time!

1. Step 1: Start by preparing the apple filling. Dice your apples and place them into a skillet. Add the brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, caramel sauce, butter, and cinnamon. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for the apples to become nice and soft, and the sauce to thicken beautifully. Let this apple mixture cool slightly while you move on to the next step.
2. Step 2: Next, let’s whip up that dreamy cream cheese topping. In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Beat them together until you have a smooth, creamy consistency. Set this aside.
3. Step 3: Now for the crispy shells! Heat your oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place one tortilla into the hot oil. Fry it for about 10–20 seconds until it’s pliable, then gently fold it into a taco shape. Fry the other side for another 5–10 seconds until golden.
4. Step 4: Remove the shaped tortilla from the oil, letting any excess grease drain off. Immediately coat both sides generously in your cinnamon sugar mixture while it’s still warm. This is crucial for that perfect sweet crunch!
5. Step 5: Place the cinnamon-sugar coated shells upside down on a paper towel-lined plate to cool and set. This helps maintain their taco shape. Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the remaining tortillas.
6. Step 6: Once your shells are cool and crisp, it’s time to assemble! Spoon the slightly cooled apple mixture into each taco shell.
7. Step 7: Finish by piping or spooning the creamy cream cheese mixture on top of the apples in each taco. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a tiny sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serving these apple pie tacos immediately after assembly ensures the best texture!

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Pie Tacos

Want to elevate your apple pie taco game? I’ve learned a few tricks that make these desserts truly special. Follow these tips for the most delicious results!

• For the crispiest taco shells, make sure your oil is hot but not smoking before frying the tortillas.
• Don’t overcook the apples; they should be tender but still hold their shape for the best texture in your apple pie tacos.
• Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened for a smooth, lump-free topping – it makes a big difference.
• For an even quicker version, you can use store-bought pie crust cut into rounds and fried, or even bake the tortillas with cinnamon sugar for a lighter crunch.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Pie Tacos?

The real secret to perfect homemade apple pie tacos lies in the balance of textures: achieving that super crisp, cinnamon-sugar coated shell and pairing it with a warm, soft apple filling and a cool, creamy topping. The frying technique is key! For more on frying techniques, check out this guide on testing the elements.

Can I make Apple Pie Tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the apple filling and the cream cheese topping a day or two in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. However, fry and coat the taco shells just before serving for maximum crispness. This keeps your apple pie dessert tacos from getting soggy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Pie Tacos?

A common pitfall is using oil that’s too cool, resulting in greasy shells. Always ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Another mistake is overfilling the shells, which can make them difficult to eat. Don’t overstuff them!

Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie Tacos

These delightful apple pie tacos are a showstopper on their own, but serving them just right can make them even more memorable. For a truly decadent experience, offer a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside each taco. The contrast of the warm, spiced apples and the cold, creamy ice cream is divine.

You can also pair these sweet apple pie tacos with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for added richness. For a more complete dessert experience, consider serving them with a small side of candied pecans for a delightful crunch. They’re perfect for impressing guests at any fall gathering! You might also enjoy our recipe for easy cinnamon rolls for another comforting treat.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Pie Tacos

These delightful apple pie tacos are a treat for the senses, and here’s a look at what each serving offers nutritionally. While they are a rich dessert, they deliver on flavor!

• Calories: Approximately 830
• Fat: Approximately 50g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 20g
• Protein: Approximately 6g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 94g
• Fiber: Approximately 4g
• Sugar: Approximately 58g
• Sodium: Approximately 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional content, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Pie Tacos

To keep your apple pie dessert tacos tasting their best, proper storage is key. Once assembled, these treats are best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispness. However, if you have any leftovers or want to prep ahead, cool the taco shells completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. The apple filling and cream cheese topping can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can even freeze the cooled, un-filled taco shells for up to 3 months!

When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the apple filling in a saucepan or microwave. For the shells, you can briefly reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer at a low temperature to restore crispness. Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. This ensures you get that delightful crunch and warm filling combination every time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pie Tacos

What are Apple Pie Tacos?

Apple Pie Tacos are a creative dessert that reimagines the classic apple pie. They consist of crispy, fried tortilla shells coated in cinnamon sugar, filled with a warm, spiced apple mixture, and often topped with a creamy frosting or whipped cream. They offer all the comforting flavors of apple pie in a fun, portable format that’s perfect for sharing.

Can I use different types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are great for their texture and sweetness, you can use a variety of apples. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness that balances the sweetness, and a mix of apples can create a more complex flavor profile in your apple pie tacos. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape.

What are some healthier variations of Apple Pie Tacos?

For a lighter take, you can bake the tortilla shells instead of frying them until they’re crisp. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the apple filling and the cream cheese topping. Consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative or a lighter whipped topping. These adjustments make for delicious yet slightly more health-conscious apple pie tacos.

How do I get the taco shells perfectly crisp?

The key to perfectly crisp apple pie taco shells is using oil that’s at the right temperature – medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan, and fry each side until golden and pliable before folding. Coating them immediately in cinnamon sugar and letting them cool upside down on paper towels helps them maintain their shape and crispness.

Variations of Apple Pie Tacos You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic apple pie tacos, why not get creative? There are so many fun ways to put your own spin on this delightful dessert. Experimenting with different flavors and methods can lead to new favorites!

• Baked Apple Pie Tacos: For a lighter option, skip the frying! Brush your tortillas with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake them in a muffin tin or over oven racks at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crisp. This results in wonderfully light shells that are still delicious.
• Spiced Apple & Cranberry Tacos: Add about 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries to the apple filling during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with the sweet apples and cinnamon, creating a festive flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Apple Pie Tacos: Easily make these gluten-free by using gluten-free flour tortillas. Fry them just like the regular ones, ensuring your cinnamon sugar coating is also gluten-free. This allows everyone to enjoy these incredible desserts.
• Deconstructed Apple Pie Tacos: Not a fan of frying? Serve the warm spiced apple filling and creamy topping in small bowls with cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla chips or strips on the side. It’s a simpler way to enjoy the flavors, especially if you’re short on time.

Print