Shortcut Apple Dumplings with Crescent Rolls

These deliciously simple apple dumplings combine the convenience of crescent rolls with fresh apples and a buttery cinnamon sauce. Perfect for when you want a homestyle dessert without the fuss of scratch baking.

Key Ingredients

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cans crescent roll dough (8 count each)
  • 2 large Granny Smith apples
  • 1 cup butter, unsalted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 can (12 oz) Mountain Dew or Sprite
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ons:

  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chopped pecans
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Whipped cream

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Initial Setup

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F
  2. Grease 9×13 inch baking dish
  3. Peel and core apples
  4. Cut each apple into 8 wedges
  5. Keep dough refrigerated until needed

Step 2: Assembly

  1. Unroll crescent dough
  2. Separate into triangles
  3. Place apple wedge on wide end
  4. Roll dough around apple
  5. Tuck ends securely
  6. Arrange in baking dish

Step 3: Make Sauce

  1. Melt butter in saucepan
  2. Add sugar and cinnamon
  3. Stir until combined
  4. Remove from heat
  5. Add vanilla and salt
  6. Pour over dumplings

Step 4: Baking

  1. Pour soda around edges
  2. Bake 35-40 minutes
  3. Baste every 15 minutes
  4. Check for golden brown color
  5. Cool 10 minutes before serving

Pro Tips

  1. For Perfect Results:
  • Keep dough cold
  • Use tart apples
  • Don’t skip basting
  • Let cool slightly
  1. Make-Ahead Options:
  • Prepare through assembly
  • Add sauce and soda before baking
  • Best served warm

Storage Tips

  • Best day of baking
  • Refrigerate up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently
  • Don’t freeze

Troubleshooting

If Dumplings Are:

  • Too Dry: More sauce while baking
  • Too Sweet: Reduce sugar or use diet soda
  • Not Brown: Brush with butter
  • Too Dark: Cover with foil

Perfect for:

  • Quick desserts
  • Family gatherings
  • Holiday treats
  • Weekend baking

These dumplings are a delightful shortcut to homemade flavor. The combination of flaky crescent rolls, tender apples, and rich sauce creates an irresistible dessert that tastes like it’s made from scratch!

Remember:

  • Keep ingredients cold
  • Don’t overbake
  • Baste regularly
  • Serve warm
  • Add toppings fresh

The secret to success is in the details – proper assembly, regular basting, and careful baking time. Follow these steps and you’ll have a dessert everyone will love!