Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings

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Golden, gooey, and gloriously comforting—Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are the kind of dessert that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. Made with flaky crescent roll dough, tender apple slices, and a buttery cinnamon-sugar sauce that caramelizes as it bakes, this treat is the epitome of cozy fall baking. What makes it truly irresistible is the slight crisp on the edges, soft center, and rich syrup that forms at the bottom of the dish.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a casual weekend dessert or impressing guests at a dinner party, these dumplings strike the perfect balance between homemade charm and low-effort brilliance. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel for a sweet finale that feels like a hug from grandma.

Why You’ll Love This Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe

• Quick and easy—perfect for beginner bakers.
• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
• The texture contrast of crispy crust and soft apple filling is divine.
• Great for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
• Works with store-bought dough—no need to make pastry from scratch.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for even baking and syrup development.
• Apple peeler & corer: Saves time and ensures even apple slices.
• Knife & cutting board: For slicing apples into uniform wedges.
• Saucepan: Needed to melt butter and dissolve sugar for the syrup.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accuracy matters when creating the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
• Pastry brush (optional): Helpful for brushing the tops with butter or extra syrup.

Preparation Tips

Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for best results—they hold their shape and offer a nice contrast to the sweet syrup. Don’t skimp on the butter-sugar mixture; it’s what creates that luscious caramel-like sauce at the bottom of the pan. Make sure the crescent dough seals tightly around the apples to keep everything moist and flavorful inside. Lastly, give the dumplings a bit of space in the dish so the sauce can circulate and coat them evenly during baking.

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Ingredients for this Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe

• 2 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into 8 wedges each)
• 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling on top

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat with non-stick spray. This ensures the dumplings won’t stick and helps with even caramelization of the syrup.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples into 8 wedges per apple. You should have 16 slices total. Pat them dry slightly to prevent excess moisture inside the dumplings.

Step 3: Wrap the Dumplings

Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Place one apple slice at the wide end of each crescent triangle, then roll up from the wide end to the tip, encasing the apple. Place each wrapped apple slice seam-side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Butter Syrup

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Pour and Fill

Pour the butter mixture evenly over the wrapped dumplings in the baking dish. Then carefully pour the lemon-lime soda around the edges of the pan, not directly on top of the dumplings. This creates a fizzy, bubbling action during baking that helps form the signature syrup.

Step 6: Bake the Dumplings

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling thickly around the dumplings.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the dumplings rest for about 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra sauce from the pan. The contrast of warm dumplings and cold ice cream is absolutely heavenly.

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Notes

For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter slightly before adding the sugar and spices. This adds a nutty depth that complements the tart apples beautifully. If you enjoy a more spiced dessert, increase the cinnamon or add a dash of ground clove or allspice. You can also substitute apples with pears for a seasonal twist. Keep in mind that the dumplings are best enjoyed warm, as the sauce continues to thicken and flavor intensifies with time.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using overly ripe apples: They may turn mushy while baking and lose texture.
• Pouring soda directly over dumplings: This washes off the butter mixture and prevents crisping. Always pour around the edges.
• Underbaking: Ensure the tops are golden and the sauce is bubbling thickly—this is key for texture and flavor.
• Not sealing the crescent rolls properly: Gaps can allow filling to leak out, leading to soggy or uneven dumplings.
• Skipping the cooling time: The sauce needs a few minutes to set properly for the ideal consistency.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crisp texture. Microwaving is faster but may soften the pastry. These dumplings do not freeze well due to the sauce becoming watery and the dough turning soggy upon thawing.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 1 dumpling)

• Calories: 290
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugars: 25g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 170mg
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, though Granny Smith is ideal, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for a sweeter variation.

Can I make Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can prep the apples and sauce in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.

What if I don’t have lemon-lime soda?

You can use ginger ale, apple cider, or even sparkling water with a splash of lemon juice.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor and richness, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with gluten-free crescent dough and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Yes, for the best texture. Apple skins can become chewy and detract from the soft filling.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Use plant-based butter and ensure your crescent dough is dairy-free. Check labels carefully.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish or two separate ones, and rotate them halfway through baking for even browning.

Conclusion

Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings are a shining example of comfort food made easy—sweet, buttery, tender, and full of fall flavor. With a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can create a nostalgic dessert that pleases every crowd. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a quiet night in, this recipe guarantees cozy satisfaction with every warm bite.

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