These Apple Pie Tacos combine the nostalgic warmth of homemade apple pie with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all wrapped in a crispy, cinnamon-sugar taco shell. It’s a creative and delightful dessert perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy fall night in.
Each bite gives you the crunch of a fried shell dusted in cinnamon sugar, followed by the smooth, fluffy cheesecake filling and spiced apple topping. They’re easy to make, fun to serve, and irresistibly good — especially with a drizzle of caramel or a dollop of whipped cream.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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5–6 medium apples (peeled, cored, diced)
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1/3 cup sugar
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1 tsp cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1/4 cup water
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6 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/3 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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10–12 small flour tortillas
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1/2 cup sugar + 2 tsp cinnamon (for coating)
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Oil for frying
Directions:
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In a saucepan over medium heat, add diced apples, 1/3 cup sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water. Cook until apples are soft and the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cream cheese mixture gently.
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Use a round cookie cutter to cut tortillas into small circles.
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Fry each tortilla circle in hot oil until golden brown, then immediately coat both sides in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Drape over a spoon handle or a taco mold to form a shell. Let cool.
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Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the taco shells, then top with apple pie filling.
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Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 10–12 tacos
The Inspiration Behind Apple Pie Tacos
Apple pie has long been a staple in the world of desserts, especially during the fall and winter months. Its comforting blend of sweet apples, cinnamon, and buttery crust makes it a go-to option for family gatherings, holidays, and casual get-togethers. But what happens when you take this beloved classic and give it a modern twist?
Apple Pie Tacos offer a fun, portable version of the traditional apple pie. Instead of a traditional pie crust, these tacos are made with small fried tortillas that are coated in cinnamon sugar, creating a crispy shell that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake filling and the warm apple pie filling. This dessert has quickly gained popularity for its delicious combination of textures and flavors, as well as its visually stunning presentation. It’s an unexpected yet delightful way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie without the need for a traditional pie pan.
Why Apple Pie Tacos Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Apple Pie Tacos are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special holiday gatherings. They are not only easy to make but also offer a fresh take on a traditional dessert that guests won’t expect but will absolutely love. The individual taco shells make this dessert great for serving in a fun and interactive way, allowing guests to assemble their own tacos with their preferred amount of filling.
These tacos are also a wonderful dessert option for people with dietary restrictions. The recipe can easily be adjusted to suit vegan or gluten-free diets. Whether you’re making them for a birthday party, Thanksgiving dinner, or a casual get-together, these tacos are versatile enough to please a wide range of dietary preferences. The unique flavor profile of this dessert adds excitement to the menu and is a great way to get everyone talking.
Cinnamon-Sugar Shells: A Crispy Base for Your Apple Pie Tacos
The cinnamon-sugar taco shell is a key element in the success of this dessert. The fried tortilla shell provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling and the tender apple pie filling. By dusting the tortillas with a cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately after frying, you add extra sweetness and a lovely spiced flavor to the shell. This gives the dessert an extra layer of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the apple pie tacos.
The cinnamon-sugar coating on the shell also helps to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake and apple filling. It’s not overly sugary, but it brings just the right amount of spice, making every bite a little bit more exciting. The combination of the fried tortilla, the cinnamon sugar, and the fillings creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also fun to eat. It’s the perfect handheld dessert for anyone who loves a little crunch with their sweets.
Cheesecake Filling: The Creamy Component of Apple Pie Tacos
The cheesecake filling is a rich and smooth component of the Apple Pie Tacos. This filling is made by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, which creates a light, fluffy texture that complements the apple pie filling beautifully. The cream cheese filling is light enough to not overpower the other elements of the dish, but it’s still indulgent enough to make each bite feel like a treat. The vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that brings everything together.
By adding whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture, you achieve an airy and delicate filling that melts in your mouth. It’s a perfect contrast to the crunchiness of the cinnamon-sugar taco shell and the soft, spiced apples. The cheesecake filling isn’t just a base for the apple filling; it adds richness and a luxurious texture that takes these tacos to the next level. It’s like eating a slice of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie all in one bite.
Apple Pie Filling: The Heart of the Dessert
The apple pie filling is, of course, the centerpiece of this dessert. The spiced apples cooked with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon juice are what give this dessert its distinct apple pie flavor. The apples soften as they cook, absorbing the sweet, spiced syrup, making each bite a flavorful experience. The filling is sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, as the cinnamon and nutmeg provide a warm spice that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the apples.
One of the best things about apple pie filling is its versatility. You can use pre-made apple pie filling from the store to save time, or you can make your own from scratch using fresh apples. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave the apples in larger pieces, or you can cook them down further for a smoother consistency. No matter how you make the apple pie filling, it’s the perfect complement to the creamy cheesecake and crunchy taco shell.
Serving Apple Pie Tacos: How to Present Them Like a Pro
When it comes to presenting Apple Pie Tacos, the key is to keep it simple yet elegant. Since the tacos are small, they make the perfect bite-sized dessert that’s easy for guests to grab and enjoy. You can serve them on a dessert platter for a casual gathering or plate them individually for a more sophisticated presentation.
If you want to take things a step further, consider adding some garnishes to elevate the presentation. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of sweetness and sophistication. You could even add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each taco for added texture and flavor. The visual appeal of the Apple Pie Tacos is just as important as the taste, and with a little creativity, you can make these tacos look as stunning as they taste.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Apple Pie Tacos
Apple Pie Tacos are a fun, creative, and delicious twist on a classic dessert. With their crispy cinnamon-sugar shells, creamy cheesecake filling, and warm, spiced apples, these tacos offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. They’re the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a party, or simply looking to try something new in the kitchen.
Not only are Apple Pie Tacos delicious, but they’re also easy to make and can be customized to suit your personal taste preferences. You can experiment with different fillings, add-ins, or toppings to make the dessert your own. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional apple pie filling or try something more adventurous, these tacos are sure to impress.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and delicious dessert to wow your guests or treat yourself, look no further than Apple Pie Tacos. With their unique presentation and mouthwatering flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.