Apple Pie Tacos Recipe – Easy Sweet Treat in 20 Minutes

The smell of warm cinnamon apples enveloped in crispy taco shells is the kind of magic that makes dessert unforgettable. Apple pie tacos combine the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the playful crunch of tacos. I first stumbled upon this idea while trying to make a quick treat for my kids, who love anything fun and handheld. Let’s just say it was love at first bite! This recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours baking. And honestly, who doesn’t love an easy dessert with a creative twist?

There’s something extra special about apple pie tacos. They’re a little unexpected, a lot delicious, and ridiculously simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick sweet treat after a long day, this recipe will become your go-to. It’s fast, fun, and totally customizable. Plus, it’s easy to whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Ready to make dessert a little more exciting? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These apple pie tacos come together in just about 20 minutes, making them perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy; these tacos are made with pantry staples and fresh apples.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even as a fun dessert for taco night.
• Kid-Friendly: The handheld format and sweet flavor make this a hit with little ones.
• Incredible Flavor: Warm, spiced apples paired with crispy, cinnamon-sugar-dusted taco shells—what’s not to love?

What sets these apart from other apple desserts is their mix of textures. The crispy shell contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy apple filling. And the cinnamon sugar coating? That’s the cherry on top, adding a subtle crunch and sweetness to every bite. These tacos are proof that you don’t need a lot of time or effort to create something truly memorable. Trust me—once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dessert that’s both comforting and fun. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apples: 3 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced (I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but Honeycrisp works too).
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons (adds sweetness and depth).
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons (for the cinnamon-sugar coating).
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (essential for that warm, spiced flavor).
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional but adds a lovely depth).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted (for cooking the apples).
• Flour Tortillas: 6 small tortillas (soft taco size).
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the tortillas.

If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortillas—they crisp up beautifully too!

Equipment Needed

• Frying Pan: For cooking the apple filling.
• Small Pot or Deep Fryer: To fry the tortillas.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping and handling the tortillas safely.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Peeler and Knife: To prep the apples.

If you don’t have a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed pot works just fine. And if you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can bake the tortillas instead of frying them.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   • Peel, core, and dice your apples into small cubes.
   • Heat a frying pan over medium heat and melt the butter.
   • Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well.
   • Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and fragrant.
   • Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
2. Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
   • In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a small pot over medium heat.
   • Using tongs, carefully fold each tortilla into a taco shape and fry until golden brown and crispy (about 30 seconds per side).
   • Place the fried tortillas on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
   • While still warm, coat each tortilla in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Fill each taco shell with the apple filling.
   • Optional: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Pro tip: If your tortillas don’t hold their shape, use a wooden spoon handle to help form them while frying. And if you’re short on time, you can always use store-bought apple pie filling!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the tortillas one at a time to ensure they crisp up evenly.
• Watch the Heat: Keep the oil temperature consistent to avoid soggy or burnt tortillas.
• Sweetness Levels: Adjust the sugar in the filling depending on your apple variety—tart apples may need a little extra sweetness.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh cinnamon and nutmeg make a huge difference in flavor, so avoid using stale spices.

One mistake I made early on was undercooking the apples—they should be soft but not mushy. Keep an eye on them to strike that perfect balance!

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Calorie Option: Bake the tortillas instead of frying, and use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap the apples for pears or peaches during summer months.
• Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free tortillas and coconut oil for frying to make the recipe gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Flavor Boost: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or sprinkle some crushed nuts over the tacos.

My personal favorite variation? Adding a hint of cardamom to the apple filling for a unique, aromatic twist!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These apple pie tacos are best served warm, straight from the pan. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. For drinks, they go wonderfully with coffee, hot cider, or even a glass of milk.

If you have leftovers (unlikely, but possible!), store the filling separately from the taco shells. Keep the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving. The taco shells can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days, but they lose their crispness over time.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each apple pie taco is estimated to contain:

• Calories: Approximately 200
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 30g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 2g

Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, making them a nutritious base for this dessert. Using fresh apples also means fewer preservatives compared to store-bought pie filling!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and downright delicious dessert idea, these apple pie tacos are a must-try. They’re versatile enough to suit any occasion and easy enough for beginner bakers. Plus, who doesn’t love a treat that combines two amazing foods into one?

Give these apple pie tacos a try, and I promise they’ll become a regular in your dessert rotation. If you make them, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below—did you add your own twist? Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who love a good sweet treat!

Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought taco shells?

Yes, but they won’t have the same cinnamon-sugar coating. You can sprinkle cinnamon sugar over them after warming.

What type of apples work best?

Granny Smith apples are perfect for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji work well for a sweeter flavor.

Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying?

Absolutely! Brush them with a little oil, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until crisp.

How do I keep the tacos crispy?

Store them in an airtight container and only fill them right before serving to prevent sogginess.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the apple filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it before assembling the tacos.

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