Apple Dumplings: Crescent rolls, apple pie filling, butter, brown sugar, and lemon-lime soda baked into a gooey, golden dessert perfection.
Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly fall evening, you’re in your comfiest sweater, and the air smells faintly of cinnamon and leaves. This, my friends, is prime apple dessert season. And nothing—and I mean nothing—hits the spot like these Apple Dumplings.
I discovered this recipe during a chaotic week when I promised dessert for a potluck but, of course, forgot until the day of. Sound familiar? In my panic, I remembered this gem of a recipe my grandma used to make. Except, hers involved peeling and slicing apples for what felt like hours. Enter crescent rolls and apple pie filling—total lifesavers.
When I pulled these out of the oven that night, they looked almost too good to be true. The golden, flaky rolls bubbling in that caramel-like sauce? Heaven. One bite, and I was transported back to her cozy kitchen, sipping cider and sneaking extra scoops of vanilla ice cream. Now, every time I make these, it feels like bringing a little bit of that magic back.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Dumplings Recipe?
So why are these Apple Dumplings the dessert you need in your life?
- Foolproof: You don’t have to be a pro baker to nail this. Trust me—I’ve had plenty of dessert disasters, and this one’s always a winner.
- Quick to Assemble: Ready for the oven in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect last-minute dessert.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, buttery, gooey, and just sweet enough—this is pure nostalgia on a plate.
- Kid-Approved: My kids love helping roll the dough, which means fewer “Is it ready yet?” questions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday potluck, these dumplings disappear fast.
Ingredient Notes:
Every ingredient here pulls its weight. Here’s the breakdown:
- Crescent Rolls: The flaky, buttery goodness is what makes these dumplings so easy and foolproof.
- Apple Pie Filling: The shortcut that saves you from peeling and slicing apples. Want to make it extra special? Sprinkle in a little cinnamon.
- Unsalted Butter: Melts into the brown sugar to create that drool-worthy caramel sauce.
- Brown Sugar: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. (And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love brown sugar?)
- Lemon-Lime Soda: Yep, soda. It sounds odd, I know, but the bubbles keep everything moist and light while adding a hint of tanginess.
How To Make Apple Dumplings?
Let’s walk through it together because this recipe is as fun as it is simple.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. You don’t want these beauties sticking, trust me.
Step 2: Roll the Dumplings
Open those crescent roll cans (isn’t that pop always a little nerve-wracking?) and lay out the triangles. Spoon some apple pie filling onto the wide end of each triangle, then roll them up snugly. Don’t worry if some filling sneaks out—it’s part of the charm.
Step 3: Arrange and Add the Topping
Place your little dumplings into the dish, giving them a bit of space to puff up. Then, mix the softened butter and brown sugar in a bowl until smooth. Dollop about a teaspoon of this mixture onto each dumpling. It’s messy, but oh-so-worth it.
Step 4: Pour in the Soda
Now for the magic touch: pour the lemon-lime soda into the dish, but not over the dumplings! You want it to bubble around them, creating a gooey, caramelized base.
Step 5: Bake
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Your kitchen is going to smell like a dream—just try not to open the oven every five minutes to check.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Step 6: Serve Warm
Let the dumplings cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for maximum deliciousness.
Storage Options:
Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them tasty:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to a day. Reheat in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked vibe.
- Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. They’re not as crisp, but the flavor stays amazing.
- Freezer: Wrap each dumpling individually in plastic wrap, then freeze. Reheat in the oven to bring back the magic.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:
- Change the Filling: Peach, cherry, or mixed berry pie filling would all be fantastic.
- Add Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cloves in the filling can take these to the next level.
- Try a Different Soda: Ginger ale or sparkling apple cider works beautifully.
What to Serve with Apple Dumplings?
These dumplings are pretty perfect on their own, but pairing them takes things to the next level:
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream makes these extra indulgent.
- Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy, and the perfect complement to the rich dumplings.
- Hot Drinks: Coffee, tea, or spiced apple cider pair beautifully with these warm, buttery treats.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?
Totally! Just peel, core, and slice them thinly. Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them earlier in the day, cover the dish, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you’re ready.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
The oven is your best bet for crispness, but the microwave works if you’re in a hurry.
So, what do you think? Are these Apple Dumplings calling your name yet? They’re easy, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try—I can’t wait to hear how they turn out in your kitchen!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Apple Dumplings
Ingredients
- 2 8 ounces cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 20 ounces can apple pie filling
- 1 c 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 c brown sugar
- 1 can lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and greasing a baking dish measuring 13" x 9".
- Next lay out the crescent roll triangles. Evenly distribute the apple filling on each triangle.
- Roll up the triangles making sure to seal in the filling and place them in the baking dish.
- In a bowl mix together butter and brown sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Then add a dollop of this mixture on top of each rolled-up triangle.
- Carefully pour lemon lime soda, between the rolls being mindful not to get it on top of them.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Until they turn golden brown. Once done serve warm. If desired you can optionally add cream or ice cream as a topping.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
