Apple Pie Tacos 🌮🍏

Introduction

There’s something magical about fall, with its crisp air, colorful leaves, and, of course, the delightful aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through the house. One of my family’s favorite fall traditions is making apple pie, but this year we decided to mix things up a bit. Enter Apple Pie Tacos—an inventive twist on a classic dessert that turns the comforting flavors of apple pie into a fun, handheld treat! The kids were ecstatic to help make these, and everyone loved how the crispy, cinnamon-sugar taco shells perfectly complemented the warm, caramelized apple filling. It’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also a hit at gatherings, and it brings smiles to faces of all ages!

Ingredients

For the Taco Shells:

• 6 small flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup melted butter

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 large apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Serving:

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Taco Shells:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine the sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
3. Brush both sides of each flour tortilla with melted butter, then dip them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well-coated.
4. Fold each tortilla over a thick wooden spoon handle or a baking rack bar to create a taco shape. Place them on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 7-9 minutes or until golden and crispy. Let them cool completely.

Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sauce is thick and caramel-like. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Assemble the Apple Pie Tacos:

1. Spoon the warm apple filling into each cinnamon-sugar taco shell.
2. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
3. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence, if desired.

Serve & Enjoy:

Serve the Apple Pie Tacos immediately while the shells are crispy and the filling is warm. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 tacos
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a creamy texture.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.
• Serve warm to enjoy the contrast of the crispy shell and warm filling.
• Garnish with extra cinnamon or chopped nuts for added flavor and crunch.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the right apples: For the best flavor, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties.
2. Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas to cater to dietary preferences.
3. Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of allspice or cloves to the apple filling for an aromatic twist.
4. Use store-bought filling: For a quicker option, use store-bought apple pie filling and mix in a touch of cinnamon and lemon juice.
5. Reheat taco shells: If you prepare the shells in advance, reheat them briefly in the oven before filling for extra crispness.

Recipe Variations

• Pumpkin Pie Tacos: Swap out the apple filling for a pumpkin filling for a seasonal twist.
• Berry Tacos: Use mixed berries for a refreshing summer version.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filled tacos for a decadent touch.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for added texture.
• Spiced Rum Sauce: Incorporate a splash of spiced rum into the apple mixture for an adult version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm beverage like apple cider or spiced chai for a cozy dessert experience.
• Serve alongside a cheese platter for a contrast of flavors.
• Offer as a dessert option at fall gatherings or holiday parties.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Keep the filled tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the taco shells before baking. Just assemble and bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the tacos back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but they may not hold the shape as well as flour tortillas.

2. What other fillings can I use?
You can fill the taco shells with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries.

3. Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The apple filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before filling the taco shells.

4. How do I prevent the shells from getting soggy?
Serve the tacos immediately after filling them to maintain the crispiness of the shells.

5. Is this dessert gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free.

6. Can I make these tacos without sugar?
You can use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol, but the taste may vary slightly.

7. What can I use instead of whipped cream?
Try Greek yogurt or coconut cream for a lighter topping.

8. How many calories are in each taco?
Each taco has approximately 320 calories, depending on toppings.

9. Can I bake the tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare the taco shells ahead of time and fill them just before serving.

10. What if I have leftover taco shells?
Store leftover shells in an airtight container and use them for other fillings like savory options!

Conclusion

Apple Pie Tacos are a delightful and innovative take on a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With their crispy, cinnamon-sugar shells filled with warm, spiced apples, they’re a treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Easy to make and fun to eat, these tacos will quickly become a favorite in your household, especially as the cooler months roll in. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy this playful dessert that captures all the flavors of fall in a handheld treat!

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