Apple Crescent Roll Dumplings
PRINTABLE recipe below!
Apple desserts are a fall favorite, and there's something magical about the combination of warm apples, buttery dough, and a hint of cinnamon. Today, we're diving into the world of apple crescent roll dumplings—an easy and fun variation of the traditional apple dumpling. But before we get into the details, let’s talk about a couple of key things: the difference between apple dumplings and turnovers, and why adding something as unexpected as Mountain Dew can take this dessert to the next level!
Photo Pillsbury
Crescent Roll Apple Turnovers vs. Dumplings: What’s the difference?
If you’re still on the fence about whether to make crescent roll apple turnovers or apple dumplings with crescent rolls, here’s a quick breakdown of the two.
Turnovers: Flaky, handheld, and perfect for eating on the go. They don’t involve baking in syrup, so they’re slightly less gooey but still absolutely delicious.
Dumplings: Soft, pillowy, and drenched in a syrupy sauce made with cinnamon and soda. They’re more of a sit-down dessert, best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Both are easy to make, especially with the help of store-bought crescent roll dough. No matter which route you take, you’re in for a sweet, apple-filled treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Wrapping It Up: Why You Should Try Apple Dumplings with Crescent Rolls
In the end, there’s no denying the charm of apple dumplings with crescent rolls. They’re simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile, with endless possibilities for customization. Whether you choose to add cream cheese for a creamy twist or experiment with different sodas like Mountain Dew, 7-Up, or ginger ale, you’re sure to create a dessert that’s packed with flavor.
So the next time you’re craving something warm, sweet, and comforting, give these easy apple dumplings a try. And don’t be surprised if they quickly become a go-to dessert in your household!
1. What are apple dumplings with crescent rolls?
Apple dumplings with crescent rolls are a simplified version of traditional apple dumplings. Instead of using homemade dough, crescent roll dough is wrapped around apple slices, baked in a cinnamon-sugar syrup, and often made even more delicious by adding a soda like Mountain Dew, Ginger Ale, or 7-Up. The result is a warm, sweet, and buttery dessert that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.
2. What kind of apples work best for crescent apple turnovers?
While you can technically use any apples you have on hand, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for this recipe. The tartness balances out the sweetness of the soda and sugar, giving your crescent apple turnovers a well-rounded flavor.
3. Why use Mountain Dew in apple dumplings?
Using Mountain Dew or other sodas like 7-Up or ginger ale helps to create a light, bubbly sauce that soaks into the dumplings while they bake. It also helps the crescent rolls puff up and get crispy on the outside. Plus, it adds an extra layer of sweetness and a hint of citrus, which pairs perfectly with the apples and cinnamon. Mt Dew apple dumplings are a crowd favorite for a reason!
4. Can I substitute the soda for something else?
If you’re not a fan of soda, you can use alternatives like apple juice, sparkling water, or even a splash of apple cider. While the result won’t be exactly the same, these substitutions will still give you that delicious, syrupy goodness in your easy apple dumplings.
5. Can I add cream cheese to my apple dumplings?
Absolutely! Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy element to the dumplings that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon. To add cream cheese, simply spread a small amount on each crescent roll triangle before adding the apple slices. When baked, the cream cheese melts into the filling, creating a tangy contrast to the sweet apples.
6. What other flavors can I add to the dumplings?
You can experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist. Topping the dumplings with chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking also adds extra texture and flavor.
7. How do I store leftover apple crescent roll dumplings?
If you happen to have leftovers (although they usually disappear quickly!), store your apple dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven to bring back their original gooey goodness.
8. Can I freeze apple dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dumplings cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warm.
8. Can I make these in advance?
I wouldn’t They are best served shortly after coming out of the oven.
Photo Sqaurespace
Apple Crescent Dumplimgs
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Peel and core apples; cut into 16 slices.
- Unroll dough; separate into 16 triangles. Place 1 apple slice on shortest side of each dough triangle. Starting with shortest side of triangle, roll to opposite point, wrapping dough around apple slice; arrange in pan.
- In medium bowl, stir together melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour mixture evenly over dumplings.
- Pour soft drink in center and along edges of pan. (Do not pour on top of dumplings.)
- Bake 33 to 36 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 15 minutes.
Notes
- This recipe is a classic from the Pillsbury Site.
- Don’t have Granny Smith apples? Try Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples instead. These apples, like Granny Smith, are crisp and will hold their shape after baking.
- Add more complex flavors to your apple dumplings by adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon.
- Serve dumplings with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce!
