Apple Cinnamon Turnovers (Spanish Empanadillas de Manzana)

These Apple Cinnamon Turnovers, known in Spain as Empanadillas de Manzana con Canela, are flaky, golden pastries filled with sweet, spiced apple filling. With their crisp exterior and warm cinnamon aroma, they make the perfect dessert, snack, or holiday treat.

This easy baked apple hand pies recipe combines tender apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon wrapped in a buttery pastry crust — simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love These Apple Empanadillas

• 🍎 Sweet and warmly spiced apple filling

• 🥧 Flaky, golden pastry crust

• 🍂 Perfect fall and holiday dessert

• 🥄 Easy to make with simple ingredients

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Great for sharing and parties

These Spanish apple empanadas are ideal for cozy afternoons and festive gatherings.

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 2–3 apples, peeled and diced

• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Pastry:

• 1 package empanada dough or puff pastry

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Apple Cinnamon Turnovers

1️⃣ Prepare the Apple Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–8 minutes until apples soften and mixture thickens. Let cool completely.

2️⃣ Assemble the Empanadillas

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each circle.

Fold in half to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork.

3️⃣ Brush & Bake

Place on a lined baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 18–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

4️⃣ Cool & Serve

Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These apple cinnamon hand pies are delicious:

✔ Warm with vanilla ice cream
✔ With caramel drizzle
✔ Alongside coffee or tea
✔ As a holiday dessert platter addition

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💡 Tips for Perfect Apple Turnovers

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.

• Cool filling completely before assembling to prevent soggy pastry.

• Seal edges tightly to avoid leakage during baking.

• Add chopped walnuts or raisins for extra flavor.