Apple Pie Tacos

Imagine the comforting, familiar taste of a classic apple pie – warm, perfectly spiced apples, a hint of cinnamon – now beautifully nestled within the satisfying crunch of a golden taco shell. These Apple Pie Tacos are the ultimate handheld dessert, offering a delightful culinary fusion that’s perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking for a fun and easy dessert that brings joy to busy weeknights or makes family gatherings extra special, this recipe is just what you need!

These tasty treats combine the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of apple pie and the playful shape of a taco. Plus, they are simple to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. Your friends and family will be amazed when you serve these delicious Apple Pie Tacos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fun presentation and delicious flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the taco shells ahead of time for an easy assembly later.
• Endless Customization: Feel free to mix up the fillings or toppings based on your preferences or what’s in season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are all simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find at your local grocery store.

Ingredients:
– 6 small flour tortillas (4.5-inch street taco size)
– ⅓ cup salted butter, melted
– ¾ cup finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon (or apple pie spice)
– 20 oz canned apple pie filling (or fresh sautéed apples)
– ¼ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
– Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
– Caramel sauce (optional, for topping)

Variations

One of the best things about Apple Pie Tacos is their flexibility! You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the filling: Use fresh fruits like peaches or berries in place of apple pie filling for a twist on flavor.
• Change the coating: Experiment with crushed cookies or nuts instead of vanilla wafers for different textures.
• Opt for dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or leave it out entirely for a lighter option.
• Add spices: Mix in nutmeg or ginger with your cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie Tacos

Step 1: Prepare Taco Shells

Start by heating about 1-1.5 inches of neutral frying oil in a heavy-bottomed pan to around 350-365°F (175-185°C). This temperature is crucial because it ensures that your taco shells fry quickly and become golden and crispy without getting greasy. Briefly warm your tortillas so they’re pliable enough to fold without breaking. Fry each tortilla one at a time; lay it flat in the oil for about 10-15 seconds before using tongs to fold it into a taco shape. Keep frying until both sides are golden brown—this should take about 30-60 seconds per side. Once done, drain them on paper towels and let them cool while you prepare the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare Crumb Coating

In a shallow dish, combine your finely crushed vanilla wafer crumbs with ground cinnamon. This mixture will give your tacos an extra layer of flavor and texture that’s reminiscent of traditional apple pie crust. Stir well so that every crumb is evenly coated with cinnamon goodness!

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling

Next, gently warm your canned apple pie filling in either a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness. This step enhances the flavor and makes sure that each bite is as delicious as possible.

Step 4: Assemble and Coat Tacos

Fill each cooled taco shell with warm apple pie filling—don’t be shy! Next, lightly brush the outside edges and top rim of each filled taco with melted butter. Immediately dip these buttered edges into your cinnamon-crumb mixture to coat thoroughly. This adds sweetness and crunch, making each bite irresistible!

Step 5: Serve

Finally, serve your Apple Pie Tacos immediately while they’re still crisp! For an extra touch of indulgence, consider topping them with whipped cream and drizzling caramel sauce over the top. Enjoy these delightful treats while they’re warm; I promise they’ll disappear fast!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Tacos

Creating the perfect Apple Pie Tacos is all about the details, and a few expert tips can elevate your dessert to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly sautéed apples can take your tacos to the next level. They provide a vibrant flavor and texture that canned filling may not achieve.

• Don’t skip the cooling: Allowing your taco shells to cool completely before filling them ensures they stay crispy and don’t become soggy from the warm filling.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is classic, feel free to get creative! A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice can add an unexpected depth of flavor.

• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture that caters to dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.

• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your Apple Pie Tacos right after assembly. This way, everyone gets to enjoy them while they’re still warm and crunchy!

How to Serve Apple Pie Tacos

Presenting your Apple Pie Tacos in an inviting way can make them even more enjoyable. Here are some fun ideas for serving this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon sugar: Dust a bit of cinnamon sugar over the tacos just before serving for a sweet finish.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds freshness and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your tacos provides a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the tacos and balances out the richness.
• Creamy coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw create an interesting textural contrast while refreshing the palate.
• Coffee or chai tea: Serve with a warm beverage like coffee or chai tea to enhance the cozy vibe of this dessert!

These serving suggestions will help you create a memorable dining experience that showcases your delicious Apple Pie Tacos perfectly! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Pie Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a delightful treat that comes together in no time.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Apple Pie Tacos in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For best results, keep the taco shells separate from the filling to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the tacos without the topping.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place tacos on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-12 minutes, until heated through and crisp.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the filling in the microwave before assembling fresh tacos if desired.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these Apple Pie Tacos, you’re in the right place!

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling for Apple Pie Tacos?

Absolutely! You can sauté fresh apples with sugar and cinnamon until tender for a delicious homemade filling. Just ensure they are well-cooked before stuffing your tacos.

How do I make my Apple Pie Tacos more indulgent?

To elevate your Apple Pie Tacos, consider adding toppings like whipped cream or caramel sauce. A sprinkle of toasted nuts can add a delightful crunch as well!

How long do Apple Pie Tacos last once prepared?

Once made, these tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Remember to keep the shells separate from the filling for optimal crunchiness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Apple Pie Tacos as I am! They beautifully blend the classic flavors of apple pie with a fun twist that everyone will love. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making these delightful treats and share them with friends and family – happy cooking!