Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and crispy with these Caramel Apple Quesadillas.
Bursting with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a touch of caramel, they deliver a fiber-rich, lightly satisfying dessert or snack.
Quick to prepare and easy to assemble, these quesadillas are an everyday-friendly treat that pairs naturally with plant-based protein toppings or a modest scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
Caramel Apple Quesadillas
Equipment
- 1 medium skillet
- 1 small bowl
- 1 spatula
- 1 knife
- 1 cutting board
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 Granny Smith apples peeled and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
For the Quesadillas:
- 8 flour tortillas
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- 4 –6 tablespoons butter
For Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Caramel sauce
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling the Granny Smith apples and cutting them into small, uniform dice. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture in every bite. Set aside in a medium bowl while you gather the other ingredients. Using tart apples balances the sweetness of the caramel, giving the quesadillas a rich, flavorful contrast.
- Cook the Apple Filling: Place 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet and melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples, stirring occasionally to coat them evenly in the butter. Cook the apples for about 3–5 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still hold their shape.
- Add Sweet Spices: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg over the softened apples. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to cook for another 3–5 minutes, letting the sugar melt and create a slightly sticky glaze that coats each apple piece. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the filling to a bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Lay out all 8 flour tortillas on a clean surface. Take 4 of the tortillas and spread 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce evenly over one side of each. This layer will help keep the apple filling in place while adding a luscious caramel flavor.
- Assemble the Quesadillas: Divide the apple mixture evenly among the 4 tortillas with caramel. Spread it out gently, making sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent filling from spilling during cooking. Top each filled tortilla with one of the remaining 4 tortillas, placing the caramel side down so it sandwiches the apple mixture securely.
- Heat the Skillet for Cooking: Wipe the skillet clean from any leftover apple residue. Place it back on the stove over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface evenly. This will give the quesadillas a golden, crispy exterior.
- Cook the Quesadillas: Carefully transfer one assembled quesadilla to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on the first side, or until it turns golden brown and slightly crisp. Flip gently with a spatula, adding a little extra butter if needed, and cook the second side until equally golden. Remove from the skillet and place on a plate. Repeat the process with the remaining quesadillas, ensuring even cooking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform cinnamon sugar blend that will add extra sweetness and texture.
- Finish and Serve: While still warm, lightly sprinkle the cooked quesadillas with the cinnamon sugar mixture. For added indulgence, drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. These quesadillas are best enjoyed immediately while the exterior is crisp and the apples are tender.
- Keep Warm for Later Serving: If you are not serving immediately, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and place the cooked quesadillas on a baking sheet. This will keep them warm without overcooking or drying out the tortillas. Serve warm within an hour for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor and firm texture.
- Cut apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant bite.
- Cook the apple filling over medium heat to prevent burning while softening the fruit.
- Spread caramel on the tortillas before adding apples to help hold the filling in place.
- Use a small amount of butter in the skillet for each side to achieve golden, crispy quesadillas.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or keep warm in a low oven (250°F / 120°C) if needed.
- Cinnamon sugar topping adds extra flavor and crunch—sprinkle while quesadillas are still warm.
- Optional: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Chef’s Secrets: Enhancing Flavor And Texture
To elevate the flavor, lightly sauté the apples until just tender, allowing the natural sugars to caramelize slightly before adding brown sugar and spices.
Experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice to the filling to brighten the flavors and prevent the apples from browning too quickly.
For a more decadent twist, sprinkle a small handful of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the filling.
Always serve immediately or keep warm in a low oven to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
These quesadillas are versatile and can be served as a dessert, snack, or even a special breakfast treat.
Drizzle extra caramel sauce or sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar for a sweeter presentation.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
They also complement a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or a spiced cider beautifully.
For a lighter option, serve with Greek yogurt instead of ice cream.
Storage Tips: Keep Quesadillas Fresh
Cooked quesadillas are best enjoyed immediately, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Wrap each quesadilla individually in foil or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or toast in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the tortillas crispy, as microwaves tend to make them soft and chewy.
Freezing Time: Long-Term Storage Advice
These quesadillas freeze well for make-ahead desserts.
Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
To reheat, thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then crisp in a preheated skillet over medium heat or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and drizzle caramel just before serving for a fresh, homemade taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firm texture, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples work well too. Keep in mind that sweeter varieties may reduce the amount of caramel needed.
2. Can I make these quesadillas vegan?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based butter substitute and vegan caramel sauce. The tortillas are usually plant-based, but check the label to ensure no dairy or egg ingredients are included.
3. How do I prevent the quesadillas from becoming soggy?
Make sure the apple filling is slightly cooled before assembling the quesadillas. Avoid overloading with caramel or wet ingredients, and cook over medium heat to allow the tortillas to crisp evenly.
4. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the apple filling can be cooked and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and cook the quesadillas just before serving to ensure the best texture.
5. What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Reheat leftover quesadillas in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortillas soft.
Reapply a light dusting of cinnamon sugar and a drizzle of caramel before serving for the freshest taste.
