Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings: The Perfect Fall Dessert
There’s something about the aroma of warm apples, cinnamon, and buttery crescent rolls baking in the oven that feels like a cozy autumn hug. Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are a modern twist on a classic dessert, with roots in traditional apple dumplings that date back centuries. This quick, delightful recipe combines store-bought crescent rolls with apples and a dash of lemon-lime soda to make a warm, gooey dessert in just under an hour.
Why This Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe is Worth Trying
Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are a crowd-pleaser. They’re the ideal balance of sweet and tart, with the buttery crescent roll dough wrapping each apple slice like a little bundle of joy. And because this recipe is so simple, it’s a go-to for those busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something special for guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
My Personal Story with Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings
My journey with Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings started one chilly autumn evening. I remember the smell of apples and cinnamon filling my grandmother’s kitchen as she taught me this recipe. She’d pull out a can of crescent roll dough, and with a wink, say, “A little shortcut never hurt anyone!” Together, we’d slice apples, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, and roll them up, each dumpling filled with a bit of warmth and nostalgia. That first bite—soft apple wrapped in buttery dough, soaked in caramelized sweetness—made me fall in love with this simple dessert. Now, every fall, I carry on the tradition, making these dumplings for family gatherings, where the familiar aroma takes me right back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen.
The History of Apple Dumplings
Apple dumplings originated in Europe and are particularly popular in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Traditional apple dumplings are made with homemade dough, wrapped around a whole apple filled with sugar and cinnamon, and then baked to perfection. Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are a quick, simplified version of this classic dish, retaining that warm, comforting taste without the lengthy preparation.
Ingredients and Tools Needed for Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings
Ingredients:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples (tart and firm, ideal for baking)
- 2 cans of Pillsbury crescent roll dough (16 rolls total)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 stick (½ cup) melted butter
- 1 can (12 oz) Mountain Dew or any lemon-lime soda
- Optional: caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for serving
Tools:
- Baking dish (9×13 inches is ideal)
- Pastry brush (for spreading butter)
- Small mixing bowl (for the cinnamon sugar mixture)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Apple peeler, corer, and slicer
- Airtight container (for storing leftovers)
Special Preparation Tips:
- Choosing the right apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect due to their tartness, which contrasts well with the sweetness of the crescent dough and brown sugar.
- Unrolling the dough: Be gentle to keep the crescent dough from tearing.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish with a light coating of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and cut each apple into eight equal slices. Granny Smith apples are a great choice for baking because they maintain their shape and add a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Step 3: Wrap the Apples in Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Place an apple slice at the wide end of each triangle and roll it up, covering the apple slice completely. Repeat with each apple slice until you’ve used all the dough.
Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish
Place each dough-wrapped apple slice seam-side down in the greased baking dish. Arrange them in rows, with a little space between each dumpling.
Step 5: Add the Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour this mixture evenly over the apple dumplings.
Step 6: Drizzle with Butter and Soda
Drizzle the melted butter over the dumplings, making sure to coat them evenly. Then, pour the can of Mountain Dew around (not directly over) the dumplings. This creates a rich sauce as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake the dumplings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve these dumplings warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
- Variations: Try substituting the Mountain Dew with other lemon-lime sodas like Sprite or 7UP. For a fall flavor twist, use apple cider instead of soda.
- Add-ins: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the dumplings before baking for a nutty crunch.
- Dough Alternatives: If you prefer a different texture, use puff pastry dough in place of crescent roll dough for a flakier result.
- Dietary Substitutions: For a vegan version, use dairy-free crescent rolls and a plant-based butter alternative.
My Experience with Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe
I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time, it’s been a hit with family and friends. Through trial and error, I’ve learned that Granny Smith apples work best as they hold up well during baking and balance the sweetness of the sugar and butter sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 285
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 19g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the soda right before putting them in the oven.
2. What other apples can I use besides Granny Smith?
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try Fuji or Honeycrisp apples, though they may not hold up as well during baking.
3. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
Yes! Puff pastry can be a great substitute, giving a flaky texture. Just adjust the baking time slightly.
4. What should I do with leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
5. Can I freeze these dumplings?
Yes, wrap them tightly in foil and store in the freezer for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are a perfect way to enjoy a classic apple dessert without the fuss of homemade dough. This easy apple dumpling recipe brings all the warmth and sweetness you crave in a fall dessert. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family meal or at a festive gathering, these dumplings are sure to be a crowd favorite. Give them a try and experience the simple magic of crescent roll apple dumplings!
Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 cans of Pillsbury crescent roll dough
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup melted butter
- 12 oz Mountain Dew or lemon-lime soda
- Optional: caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Wrap each apple slice in crescent roll dough.
- Place dumplings in the baking dish, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, drizzle with butter, and pour soda around dumplings.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with ice cream and caramel sauce.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 285
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 19g
Notes:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Use Granny Smith apples for best results.
