EASY APPLE DUMPLINGS RECIPE (2024)

Easy Apple Dumplings recipe made with just a few ingredients, an apple, brown sugar, crescent dough & lemon lime soda! Simple recipe for apple dumplings in a sweet caramel-like glaze that tastes delicious.

Making these dumplings starts with the apple, selected for its tartness to complement the sweetness to come, which are wrapped in tender crescent roll dough—a convenient shortcut to homemade pastry. The process is both fun and straightforward. Once the fruit is encased in the dough, it’s drenched with a buttery cinnamon sauce that, when baked, transforms into a golden glaze that is both visually appealing and delicious.

The magic ingredient in this recipe might come as a surprise: a can of lemon lime soda. Adding 7-Up to the ensemble may seem different, but it introduces an effervescent lift to the sauce, further lightening the texture of the dumplings as they bake to perfection.

Be sure to check out our updated collection of BEST EVER APPLE RECIPES here!

Apple Dumpling Ingredients

The success of apple dumplings relies on the quality and type of ingredients used. Selecting a tart apple and the right type of crescent dough is crucial, as is the combination of butter, sugar, spices, and soda to create the rich sauce for this dessert.

Apple Selection

• Type:A large tart apple is preferred, such as Fuji for its balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• Preparation:The apple should be cored and cut into 8-10 wedges, with skins removed.

Crescent Dough Selection

• Brand:Pillsbury Crescent dough is recommended for its consistent quality and ease of use.
• Handling:Ensure the dough is kept chilled until ready to wrap the apple wedges to maintain its shape.

Butter, Sugar, and Spices

• Butter:1/2 cup is melted to create a rich base for the sauce.
• Sugar and Cinnamon:2/3 cups of sugar and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon are whisked into the butter for sweetness and spice.
• Vanilla:1/2 teaspoon of vanilla is stirred in once the sauce is removed from heat for added flavor.

Soda Choice

• Type:3/4 cup (6 oz.) of 7-Up or an equivalent clear soda is used to introduce both carbonation and a slight acidity that enhances the final product.
• Purpose:The soda contributes to the sauce’s liquid volume and helps in creating a light texture.

Best Apples for Baking

When choosing apples for baking, one seeks varieties that hold their shape and provide a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Several types excel in these areas:

• Granny Smith: Known for its vibrant green color and tartness, this apple maintains structure beautifully when baked.
• Honeycrisp: They are sweet with a touch of acidity, and remain firm after cooking.
• Braeburn: A balanced apple that’s both sweet and slightly tart; it is sturdy enough for baking.
• Jonagold: A cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, it offers a honeyed flavor and keeps well in the oven.
• Fuji: These apples are on the sweeter side and work well in recipes that call for a less tart apple.

For tarts and pies, firm apples are preferable. They should not only complement the flavors of the other ingredients but also not turn to mush during the baking process.

Making Crescent Apple Dumplings

Creating delicious Crescent Apple Dumplings is a straightforward process that involves wrapping apple wedges in crescent roll dough, smothering them in a buttery cinnamon sauce, and baking them to perfection with a touch of effervescence provided by 7-Up.

Begin by preheating the oven to350 degrees Fand greasing an8×8 baking dish.

Prepare the Apples:

• Peel and cut 1 large tart apple into 8-10 wedges.
• Ensure each apple wedge is dry to facilitate wrapping.

Wrap the Apples:

• Separate the crescent dough into triangles.
• Roll each apple wedge in the dough, starting at the wide end, and pinch to seal.

Make the Sauce:

• Melt1/2 cup butterin a saucepan.
• Add2/3 cups sugarand1/2 tsp cinnamon.
• Stir over heat until thickened.
• Off heat, incorporate1/2 tsp vanilla.

Assemble the Dumplings:

• Arrange the wrapped apples in the dish.
• Drizzle with the cinnamon mixture.
• Gently pour3/4 cup 7-Uparound the dumplings.

Bake:

• Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

With these steps, one can create a tray of warm and inviting Crescent Apple Dumplings that are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

Serving Suggestions

When presenting the apple dumplings,consider the following pairings to enhance the flavorsand dining experience:

• Vanilla Ice Cream:A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices of the dumplings and creates a classic dessert pairing.
• Whipped Cream:Light whipped cream adds a fluffy texture.
• Caramel Sauce:Drizzling caramel sauce on top brings a rich, buttery finish.
• Cheddar Cheese:For a savory twist, a slice of sharp cheddar cheese contrasts the sweetness.

Optional Garnishes:

• A sprinkle ofpowdered sugarcan add a touch of sweetness and a festive look.
• A light dusting ofcinnamoncan intensify the flavor profile.
• Chopped nuts, such aspecans or walnuts, provide a crunchy texture.

Serving Temperature:

Serving the dumplings warm is crucial for achieving the melt-in-your-mouth experience. If prepared in advance, gently reheat in the oven before serving.

Beverage Pairings:

• Hot Cider:Enhances the apple flavor of the dumplings.
• Coffee or Tea:Balances the sweetness and provides a comforting end to the meal.
• Dessert Wine:A sip of dessert wine, such as Sauternes or Riesling, can match the bold flavors.

For an appealing presentation, arrange the dumplings on a decorative serving platter and garnish with your choice of toppings. When serving, use a spoon to scoop up the syrupy sauce from the bottom of the baking dish and drizzle it over the dumplings for added moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

In the pursuit of perfect apple dumplings, certain queries frequently arise about the ingredients and methods. These questions cater to preferences and dietary concerns that might emerge during the preparation process.

What types of apples are best suited for making apple dumplings?

The success of apple dumplings largely depends on the apple variety used. Tart apples like Granny Smith are commonly preferred for their firm texture and flavor complexity that balances the sweetness of the dish.

How can you modify apple dumplings to lower their calorie content?

To reduce the calorie count in apple dumplings, one may opt for a lower-fat crescent dough option, use less butter or a butter alternative, substitute a portion of the sugar with a sweetener like stevia, and opt for a diet or low-calorie soda.

Can apple pie filling be used as a substitute in apple dumpling recipes?

Apple pie filling can be used as a substitute in apple dumpling recipes. It offers a quick and convenient option, though it might alter the texture and sweetness level compared to fresh apples.

What are the essential steps to ensure apple dumplings come out golden brown and delicious?

Ensuring the dough is properly sealed around the apples prevents leakage and aids in even browning. Baking at the right temperature, 350 degrees F, and pouring the soda over the dumplings before baking are critical to achieving a golden brown color and a deliciously caramelized exterior.

How to Store Apple Dumplings

Proper storage of apple dumplings is crucial to maintain their flavor and texture. The following guidelines ensure the dumplings remain delectable after preparation.

Room Temperature Storage:

• Keep the apple dumplings at room temperature for a short duration.
• Cover them loosely with foil or plastic wrap to protect from dust and insects.
• Consume withintwo daysfor optimal taste.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Place the dumplings in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up tofour days.
• Ensure the refrigerator temperature is set below40°F (4°C)to prevent bacterial growth.

Freezer Storage:

• For longer preservation, freezing is an effective method.
• Wrap each dumpling individually in cling film or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag to avoid freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date. Apple dumplings can be stored frozen for up tothree months.

Reheating Stored Dumplings:

• When ready to eat, reheat refrigerated dumplings in an oven preheated to350°F (175°C)for about 10-15 minutes.
• Frozen dumplings do not require thawing and can be heated directly in the oven; adjust timing as needed.

Employing these storage techniques allows one to enjoy their apple dumplings while ensuring safety and preserving quality.

Can You Freeze Apple Dumplings?

Freezing apple dumplings is quite possible and can be an excellent way to enjoy this treat at a later date. They should retain their quality if properly stored in the freezer.

Before freezing, one must ensure the dumplings have fully cooled down after baking. Placing warm dumplings in the freezer can cause condensation, leading to frost build-up and potentially soggier pastry upon reheating.

Steps to Freeze Baked Apple Dumplings:

1. Allow the dumplings to cool completely after baking.
2. Wrap each dumpling individually inaluminum foilorplastic wrap.
3. Place the wrapped dumplings in anairtight containeror aheavy-duty freezer bagto prevent freezer burn.
4. Label the container or bag with thedateandcontents.

To Freeze Unbaked Apple Dumplings:

• Prepare the dumplings up to the point of baking, then freeze them raw following the same wrapping and storing process as above.

When ready to eat, there is no need to thaw; instead, the dumplings can be baked straight from the freezer. The baking time may need to be extended by a few minutes if they are baked from frozen.

For optimal quality, it’s recommended to consume the frozen apple dumplings within3 months. After this period, they may still be safe to eat but could suffer in texture and flavor.

Here are more apple recipes you’ll love:

• APPLE POUND CAKE WITH CARAMEL GLAZE
• BUTTERY APPLE CAKE
• CARAMEL APPLE CAKE MIX COOKIES
• APPLE FRITTER CAKE
• APPLE CIDER DONUT CAKE
• APPLE PEANUT BUTTER DOG TREATS
• AMISH APPLE FRITTER BREADAPPLE BROWN BETTY
• BUTTERSCOTCH APPLE SALAD
• APPLE CIDER SYRUP RECIPE
• CARAMEL APPLE ECLAIR CAKE
• APPLE BROWN BETTY
• APPLE CINNAMON BISCUITS

Country Apple Dumplings made easy with few ingredients- an apple, brown sugar, crescent dough & lemon lime soda! Simple recipe for apple dumplings in caramel sauce that everyone loves.