Imagine a dessert that marries the comforting, classic flavors of warm apple pie with the fun, handheld experience of a taco — that’s exactly what the Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe brings to your table. This delightful treat transforms simple tortillas into crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated taco shells filled with luscious apple pie filling and topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or an indulgent snack that feels both familiar and exciting. Trust me, once you try this Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, it will quickly become your new go-to dessert obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. Each element — from the warm spices to the creamy frosting — contributes to a balanced flavor, inviting textures, and a visually irresistible treat.
- 8-inch tortillas: The perfect base for crispy, foldable taco shells that hold the filling beautifully.
- 1/2 cup of sugar: Adds the essential sweetness and helps create a caramelized cinnamon coating.
- 2 tablespoons of cinnamon: Brings that iconic warm spice that defines apple pie flavor.
- 1/2 cup of melted butter: Ensures the sugar and cinnamon adhere perfectly, plus adds richness.
- 16 ounces of softened cream cheese: Provides a smooth, tangy base for the frosting that cuts through the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream: Lightens up the cream cheese frosting for a luscious, airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest: Brightens the frosting with a hint of citrus freshness.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the frosting’s flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting to perfection.
- 1 (21-ounce) can of apple pie filling: The star element, filled with tender, spiced apples that truly make this dessert shine.
How to Make Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Start by combining the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This mixture will coat your tortillas and give them that irresistible sweet spice that is signature to apple pie. Mixing it well ensures every bite bursts with warmth and sweetness.
Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas
Brush each tortilla lightly with melted butter on both sides. Then, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over each buttered tortilla. Using a skillet over medium heat, toast each tortilla until it’s golden brown and crisp. Once warm and crisp, fold the tortillas gently into taco shapes while still warm so they hold their form perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is thick, spreadable, and irresistibly creamy. This frosting is what takes your apple pie tacos from delightful to downright decadent.
Step 4: Assemble the Apple Pie Tacos
Carefully spoon the apple pie filling into each crispy cinnamon sugar-coated taco shell, piling it up generously for maximum flavor. Then, dollop or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. The combination of warm spiced apples and cool, rich frosting is a match made in dessert heaven.
How to Serve Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top. For added crunch and a pop of color, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts make a fantastic topping. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also complement the sweetness beautifully, turning each bite into a layered experience of flavors.
Side Dishes
While these apple pie tacos are a dessert, pairing them with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream creates an indulgent duo. To balance the sweetness, a small serving of fresh fruit or a cup of spiced chai tea can round out the experience perfectly without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to emphasize their warm hues. You could also line a tray with parchment paper and display the tacos standing up like mini taco stands. This makes them ideal for parties where guests can grab and enjoy without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover apple pie tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shells may lose some crispness over time, but keeping them cool preserves the cream cheese frosting and prevents spoilage. They generally stay delicious for up to two days when properly stored.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze the assembled tacos, as the texture of the tortillas and cream cheese frosting can suffer. However, you can freeze the apple pie filling separately in an airtight container for up to three months, making future batches quicker and just as tasty.
Reheating
To revive the crisp shell, gently warm unfilled tortillas in a skillet or oven before assembling tacos. If you need to warm the filling, do so on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid reheating the assembled tacos to keep the frosting fresh and cool — serve immediately after assembly for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling adds a personal touch and lets you control the sweetness and spice levels. Just make sure it’s thick enough so the tacos don’t become soggy.
What type of tortillas work best for this recipe?
8-inch flour tortillas are ideal because they crispen well and hold shape when folded. Corn tortillas are less suitable as they tend to crack when folded for this dessert.
Can I make the cream cheese frosting dairy-free?
Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream or another plant-based heavy cream substitute, you can create a delicious dairy-free version of the frosting.
How long can the assembled tacos sit out before serving?
For the best texture and freshness, assemble and serve within an hour. If left out longer, the tortillas may soften and the frosting can become less stable.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is fun, sweet, and easy to eat, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Just watch the cinnamon sugar coating if anyone has sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and playful about the Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that makes it a dessert you’ll want to share with loved ones again and again. Easy to make, bursting with classic flavors, and simply fun to eat, it’s one of those recipes that brings warmth and smiles to any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch this sweet twist become a beloved staple in your dessert lineup!
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Apple Pie Tacos with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 apple pie tacos
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Apple Pie Tacos are a fun and delicious twist on traditional apple pie, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with creamy sweetened cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect as a dessert or a festive treat, these easy-to-make tacos bring together creamy, fruity, and crispy textures for an irresistible bite.
Ingredients
Tortilla and Coating
- 5 – 8 inch Tortillas
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 Tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Cream Cheese Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Apple Filling
- 1 – 21 ounce can of apple pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside for coating the tortillas later.
- Coat Tortillas: Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each tortilla with melted butter on both sides, then sprinkle and coat thoroughly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place coated tortillas on a baking sheet.
- Cook Tortillas: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each coated tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly crisp and golden with the cinnamon sugar caramelized. Remove and set aside to cool.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add heavy cream, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Continue beating until fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble Tacos: Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese filling onto one half of each tortilla. Spoon apple pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
- Fold and Serve: Fold each tortilla taco in half to enclose the fillings. Serve immediately as a delightful apple pie dessert taco.
Notes
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the tortillas after coating with cinnamon sugar.
- Use fresh apples cooked with cinnamon and sugar if you prefer homemade filling over canned.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smooth filling without lumps.
- Serve fresh to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
- Optional: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the assembled tacos for enhanced sweetness.
