Name: Apple Pie Tacos: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert Adventure
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces Street Taco Flour Tortillas (4.5-inch); ⅓ cup Salted Butter (melted); ¾ cup Finely Crushed Vanilla Wafer Crumbs; 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 20 oz Canned Apple Pie Filling; ¼ cup Heavy Cream; Whipped Cream (optional); Caramel Sauce (optional)

As the autumn leaves tumbled down, I found myself craving a fresh spin on a timeless favorite. Enter Apple Pie Tacos—a delightful collision of classic fall flavors and playful street food. These crispy treats envelop warm, cinnamon-kissed apples in buttery tortillas, making them not just a dessert, but a conversation starter at any gathering. What I love most? They come together in a quick 20 minutes, marrying simplicity and deliciousness for moments when you want to impress without the fuss. Whether you’re winding down on a cozy afternoon or brightening up game night, these tacos are the perfect blend of fun and comfort. Curious how to make this unforgettable twist on apple pie? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Tacos

Simplicity Meets Flavor: Whipping up these tacos is a breeze—just 20 minutes from start to finish!

Crispy Texture: Each bite reveals a delightful crunch thanks to the buttery, baked tortillas that cradle warm, gooey apple filling.

Playful Presentation: Who could resist a dessert that looks as fun as it tastes? These tacos will be the highlight of any gathering.

Versatile Variations: Swap apple filling for pumpkin or berry options, adding a personal touch for every season. Check out our Garlic Butter Tacos for more creative taco ideas!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for families and friends alike, these Apple Pie Tacos spark joy and conversation, making them an ideal dessert choice.

You won’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; you’ll be serving up smiles!

Apple Pie Tacos Ingredients

For the Tacos
• Street Taco Flour Tortillas (6, 4.5-inch) – The perfect base for a crispy bite; don’t hesitate to cut larger tortillas into quarters if you prefer smaller treats.
• Salted Butter (⅓ cup, melted) – This adds richness, helping achieve that golden, crispy texture; for a vegan option, try using coconut oil instead.
For the Coating
• Finely Crushed Vanilla Wafer Crumbs (¾ cup) – This offers a delightful crunch and flavor; graham cracker crumbs can serve as a tasty substitution.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Infuses warmth and that classic apple pie flavor; feel free to use apple pie spice for extra flair.
For the Filling
• Canned Apple Pie Filling (20 oz) – A convenient choice for quick preparation; fresh sautéed apples with brown sugar and lemon juice work beautifully too for a homemade touch.
• Heavy Cream (¼ cup) – This adds a rich, custard-like texture to the filling; for a dairy-free version, consider full-fat coconut milk.
For Toppings
• Whipped Cream (optional) – Adds sweetness and a light, creamy finish to your tacos.
• Caramel Sauce (optional) – Drizzle this on top for an extra indulgent treat!

Craft these playful Apple Pie Tacos for a delightfully crispy twist on classic fall flavors that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pie Tacos

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As it warms up, you’ll be ready to create those crispy Taco shells that will hold the warm apple filling. Ensure your baking rack is placed in the center of the oven to achieve even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Melt ⅓ cup of salted butter in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, generously brush both sides of each street taco flour tortilla with the melted butter. This step is crucial for ensuring a rich flavor and a beautiful golden-brown color once baked.

Step 3: Create the Crunchy Coating
In a shallow dish, mix ¾ cup of crushed vanilla wafer crumbs with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Take each buttered tortilla and press it firmly into the crumb mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. This delightful coating adds texture to your Apple Pie Tacos.

Step 4: Set the Tortillas
Once coated, place the tortillas on a wire rack and allow them to set for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps the crumb coating adhere better and ensures these tacos maintain their crunch during baking, making for a delightful treat.

Step 5: Shape the Tacos
To form the Taco shells, drape each tortilla over a rack bar of the oven or place them upside down in a muffin tin. If you use a muffin tin, this will create a perfect taco shape and ensure the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Crisp Perfection
Slide the shaped tortillas into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them; when they start to sound “tappy” when lightly knocked, they’re ready! Once baked, let them cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine your 20 oz of canned apple pie filling with ¼ cup of heavy cream. Stir this mixture gently for about 5 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened. The heavy cream adds a luscious custard-like texture to the filling, making each bite even more delightful.

Step 8: Fill Your Tacos
Once the filling is warmed, carefully spoon it into the crispy taco shells, allowing some filling to overflow for that delicious, decadent look. The combination of the warm apple mixture and crispy shell is the heart of your Apple Pie Tacos, ready to please!

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, top your Apple Pie Tacos with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired. These delightful toppings will not only enhance the flavor but also create a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Tacos

Room Temperature: Store any leftover Apple Pie Tacos at room temperature for up to 4 hours, ideally covered with a clean kitchen towel to maintain crispness.

Fridge: If storing in the fridge, keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.

Freezer: Freeze baked taco shells for up to 3 months in a zip-top bag, ensuring they are fully cooled. Re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes before filling.

Reheating: For best results, warm the apple filling on the stove for a few minutes before spooning it into the taco shells. This brings back that warm and gooey goodness!

Expert Tips for Apple Pie Tacos

Cool the Filling: Allow the warm apple pie filling to cool for 2-3 minutes before spooning it into your shells to avoid soggy tacos.
Test for Crispiness: The shells should sound “tappy” when lightly knocked. If they’re soft, bake them a few minutes longer for optimal crunch.
Prevent Shells from Drying: If your tortillas tear or dry out, brush them with a bit more melted butter or microwave wrapped in a damp towel before shaping.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: If you prefer a thicker crumb coating on your Apple Pie Tacos, don’t hesitate to double coat them in the vanilla wafer mixture.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to switch up the filling—like using pumpkin or mixed berry—keeping the spirit of fun alive with these playful Apple Pie Tacos!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Pie Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to prep in advance and enjoy fresh flavors with minimal effort! You can prepare the taco shells up to 2 days in advance by baking and storing them in an airtight container; this keeps them crispy and ready for filling. The apple pie filling can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the filling gently on the stove to warm through, then spoon it into the pre-baked taco shells. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests with just a quick finish!

Apple Pie Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Imagine further customizing your Apple Pie Tacos to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Here’s how you can add your personal flair to this fun dessert.

Vegan Twist: Use coconut oil instead of butter and swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk to keep it plant-based and delicious.
Pumpkin Spice: Change up the filling by using canned pumpkin mixed with cream cheese and a splash of maple syrup for a seasonal delight! The flavors and colors of fall will shine through in every bite.
Berry Goodness: Replace the apple filling with a mix of cherry or blueberry pie filling and add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for a refreshing zing!
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the taco shells before filling them, or mix chocolate chips into the apple mixture for a sweet surprise. Who wouldn’t love a bit of chocolate in their dessert?
Crunchy Pecan Boost: Add toasted pecans to the apple filling or as part of the crumb coating to enhance texture and flavor. This crunchy element will elevate your tacos to a new level of indulgence!
Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour and switch to almond flour cookies for the crumb coating to create a gluten-free version of these tasty tacos. No one will even notice the difference!

If you’re looking for more creative taco ideas, be sure to check out our fantastic Garlic Butter Tacos or try our delightful Birria Crockpot Tacos for even more taco inspiration!

What to Serve with Apple Pie Tacos

Picture a gathering where sweet flavors and cozy vibes mingle seamlessly, elevating your Apple Pie Tacos to a complete dining experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast to warm apple filling creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Cranberry Sauce: This tangy side adds a zesty kick, complementing the sweetness of the tacos while enhancing that fall vibe.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm or cold, this drink echoes the flavors of your dish, making each bite harmoniously comforting and inviting.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch and a nutty richness, enhancing the overall experience of the dessert.
Homemade Caramel Sauce: Drizzling extra caramel elevates the sweetness and provides an ooey-gooey decadence that makes these tacos even more tempting.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies: These delightful cookies serve as a charming treat that continues the festive fall theme, perfect for sharing.
Hot Chocolate: Rich, velvety hot chocolate creates a cozy atmosphere, inviting warm conversations to flow alongside your delicious tacos.
Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on top adds an airy texture, making each bite a little sweeter and visually appealing.
Mini Fruit Tartlets: Light, fresh, and not overly sweet, these tartlets introduce a colorful and fruity contrast to the richness of the Apple Pie Tacos.

Apple Pie Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apples for my filling?
Absolutely! If you’re opting for fresh apples, look for crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They should feel firm and be free of dark spots or soft spots. A hint of sweetness is wonderful for balance, but a little tartness enhances the flavor beautifully!

What’s the best way to store leftover Apple Pie Tacos?
Store any uneaten Apple Pie Tacos at room temperature for up to 4 hours, covered with a clean kitchen towel to help maintain their crispness. If you have more leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to reheat in the oven for that fresh, crispy texture!

Can I freeze Apple Pie Tacos? If so, how?
Yes, you can! For the best results, freeze the baked taco shells in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes—this will bring back that delightful crunch!

What should I do if my taco shells end up soggy?
Very good question! If the shells are soggy, it could be because the filling is too hot when added. Allow the filling to cool for 2-3 minutes before spooning it into the shells. Also, ensure the tortilla shells are properly crisped in the oven. If the issue persists, consider double-coating the shells with crumbs before baking for an extra crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these tacos?
Definitely! For those allergic to gluten, swap in corn tortillas and use almond flour cookies for the crumb coating. You can easily make these Apple Pie Tacos vegan by using coconut oil in place of butter and replacing heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. Always check your specific filling ingredients for allergenic contents like nuts or dairy if required.

Can I make the apple filling from scratch?
Of course! For a homemade approach, peel and core 3-4 apples, then sauté them with 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just tender. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for that classic apple pie flavor!