Apple Pie Enchiladas offer a delightful twist on two beloved classics: the warm, spiced filling of traditional apple pie wrapped in soft flour tortillas, baked until golden and drenched in a rich, buttery cinnamon syrup. This dessert is simple to prepare and ideal for both weeknight treats and holiday gatherings. The contrast between the tender apple filling and the lightly crisped tortilla exterior, all soaked in a caramel-like sauce, creates a flavor and texture combination that’s hard to resist.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make this comforting dessert with step-by-step instructions, useful baking tips, and answers to commonly asked questions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flour tortillas | 6 (8-inch size) | Serves as the “enchilada” wrap |
| Apple pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) | Sweet spiced apple filling |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth to the filling |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Forms the syrup with butter and water |
| Water | 1 cup | Helps dissolve the sugar |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Adds richness to the sauce |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Enhances the syrup flavor |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the apple pie filling with the ground cinnamon.
- Stir until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the apples.
Step 3: Fill and Roll the Tortillas
- Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spoon an equal amount of the apple filling mixture along the center of each tortilla.
- Roll up tightly, like a burrito, and place each tortilla seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Syrup
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, and butter.
- Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes, then remove from the heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas
- Pour the warm syrup evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the tortillas are golden brown and slightly crisp.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm. These enchiladas are excellent with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success
1. Use Fresh Tortillas
Fresh, soft flour tortillas roll more easily and hold together better during baking. If your tortillas feel stiff, warm them slightly before rolling.
2. Customize Your Filling
While canned apple pie filling is convenient, feel free to use homemade filling for added depth of flavor. Just make sure it’s not too wet to prevent soggy enchiladas.
3. Don’t Skip the Simmer
Simmering the sauce helps thicken it slightly and allows the flavors of sugar, butter, and vanilla to develop.
4. Let Them Rest Before Serving
Resting the enchiladas for 5–10 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier.
Variations
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans inside the filling for a nutty crunch.
- Use Spiced Filling: Add ground cloves or nutmeg for a more complex spice profile.
- Make it a Crumble: Top the enchiladas with a quick oat crumble before baking for extra texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Yes. Homemade filling using fresh apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice will work beautifully. Just be sure to cook it slightly so the apples are tender before assembling.
2. Can I make Apple Pie Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the enchiladas and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Prepare the sauce just before baking and proceed with the final steps.
3. Can I freeze Apple Pie Enchiladas?
You can freeze the enchiladas after baking. Allow them to cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
4. What kind of tortillas should I use?
Soft flour tortillas are ideal for this dessert. Corn tortillas are not recommended as they don’t pair well with sweet flavors and may break during rolling.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the syrup to ¾ cup. Keep in mind this will also reduce the amount of sauce produced.
6. Can I use other pie fillings?
Absolutely. Peach, cherry, or blueberry pie filling are all great alternatives. You can follow the same method with minor spice adjustments.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Enchiladas are an easy, comforting dessert that blends two favorites into one delicious dish. They require minimal prep and deliver maximum flavor. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or looking to impress with something unique yet simple, these enchiladas are sure to become a new family favorite.
They’re sweet, saucy, and just the right amount of indulgent – especially when served warm with a scoop of ice cream.