This recipe takes a traditional apple pie and gives it a playful spin, transforming it into an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. The inspiration for this dish came from my own family’s love of both apple pie and Mexican cuisine. I wanted to create something that combined the best of both worlds, and thus, Apple Pie Enchiladas were born. They have quickly become a favorite in our household, especially when topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Homemade Apple Pie Filling or 1 (21-ounce) can apple pie filling
6 (8-inch) flour tortillas
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup butter
½ cup white sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup water
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your oven is at the perfect temperature when it’s time to bake the enchiladas. Meanwhile, prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the enchiladas from sticking to the dish and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Soften the Tortillas
To make the tortillas easier to roll and handle, soften them in the microwave. Stack the tortillas on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. This step makes the tortillas more pliable, so they won’t crack or tear when you roll them up.
3. Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Spoon about one heaping ¼ cup of apple pie filling slightly off-center on each tortilla. Sprinkle the filling evenly with ground cinnamon to enhance the spiced apple flavor. Carefully roll up each tortilla, ensuring the filling is enclosed and the seam is on the bottom. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
4. Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, continuing to stir. The sauce will thicken slightly during this time.
5. Assemble and Rest
Pour the hot sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish. If you like, you can sprinkle additional cinnamon on top of the sauce for extra flavor. Let the dish stand for 45 minutes. This resting period allows the tortillas to absorb some of the sauce and flavors, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dessert.
6. Bake
After the resting period, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The enchiladas should be golden and bubbly when they come out of the oven. The sauce will caramelize slightly, creating a deliciously sweet and sticky coating over the tortillas.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. These Apple Pie Enchiladas are best enjoyed warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
Apple Pie Filling: You can use homemade apple pie filling or store-bought. If you prefer, you can also substitute other fruit fillings like peach, cherry, or berry for a different twist.
Tortillas: While flour tortillas are traditional, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if you prefer. Ensure they are softened as described to prevent tearing.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices by adding nutmeg, allspice, or clove to the apple filling for additional layers of flavor.
Sauce Variations: If you want a different sauce flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to the sauce. For a richer taste, you can use brown butter instead of regular butter.
Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. In addition to vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an extra touch of flavor.
Summary
Apple Pie Enchiladas are a delightful and inventive twist on a classic dessert that brings together the best of both apple pie and enchiladas. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of spiced apples, buttery tortillas, and a sweet, caramel sauce to create a treat that is both satisfying and unique. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a delicious dessert at home, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite.
The recipe is easy to follow and perfect for those who love the flavors of apple pie but want a fun and different presentation. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert in a new and exciting way. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious results!
