There’s something magical about the aroma of baked apples wafting through the house.
Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate.
Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply treat yourself after a long day, this recipe is a quick solution that delivers big on flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delightful dumplings in no time.
Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite in my kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings
These Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings are the ultimate dessert for busy lives.
They come together in a flash, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy family night.
The combination of flaky crescent roll dough and sweet, tender apples creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
Plus, the warm cinnamon sugar topping adds that extra touch of comfort.
You’ll find yourself making these again and again!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings
To create these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
Large apples: Choose your favorite variety, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Refrigerated crescent roll dough: This is the magic that wraps around the apples, creating a flaky, buttery shell.
Granulated sugar: A staple in any dessert, it sweetens the dumplings and enhances the apple flavor.
Ground cinnamon: This warm spice is the star of the show, adding that cozy, comforting aroma and taste.
Unsweetened apple juice: It adds moisture and a hint of apple flavor, making the dumplings even more delicious.
Butter: Melted butter gives richness and helps the dumplings achieve that golden-brown finish.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful.
Feel free to get creative! You can drizzle caramel sauce over the dumplings for a sweet twist or swap out apples for pears or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings
Making Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings is a delightful journey that’s as easy as pie—well, easier!
Let’s dive into the steps that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
This ensures that your dumplings bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
This sweet blend will be sprinkled on the dumplings, adding that irresistible flavor.
Set it aside for now; it’ll be ready when you need it.
Step 3: Unroll the Crescent Roll Dough
Next, take your refrigerated crescent roll dough and unroll it.
Carefully separate the dough into triangles.
This is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Assemble the Dumplings
Place one apple slice on the wide end of each triangle.
Sprinkle a little of that cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the apple slice.
Now, roll the dough around the apple, starting from the wide end and rolling to the point.
Pinch the edges to seal them tightly.
This keeps the delicious filling inside!
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and place your rolled dumplings inside.
Make sure they’re snug but not overcrowded.
This allows them to puff up beautifully while baking.
Step 6: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, unsweetened apple juice, and vanilla extract.
This mixture will soak into the dumplings, adding moisture and flavor.
Stir it well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 7: Pour and Sprinkle
Pour the butter mixture evenly over the dumplings in the baking dish.
Don’t be shy—make sure each dumpling gets a good soak!
Then, sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar over the top for that extra sweetness.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Now, it’s time to bake!
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes.
You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and bubbly.
Let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat!
Tips for Success
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
Don’t rush the sealing process; pinch the edges well to avoid leaks.
Let the dumplings cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
For a crispy top, broil for a minute after baking, but watch closely!
Experiment with spices; a pinch of nutmeg can add a delightful twist.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works best, but any oven-safe dish will do.
Mixing bowls: Use two bowls—one for the cinnamon sugar and another for the butter mixture.
Measuring cups: Handy for precise ingredient measurements, but you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Spatula: Great for transferring the dumplings and ensuring they’re well-coated.
Variations
Caramel Apple Dumplings: Drizzle caramel sauce over the dumplings before baking for a rich, sweet twist.
Peach or Pear Dumplings: Swap out apples for fresh peaches or pears for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Variation: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the cinnamon sugar for an extra layer of warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm dumplings.
Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the dumplings for a sweet finish.
Hot Beverage: Serve with a warm cup of cider or coffee to enhance the cozy experience.
Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few apple slices for a beautiful touch.
FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! You can swap apples for pears or peaches for a delightful twist. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor, making the dumplings versatile.
How do I store leftover dumplings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore that fresh-baked taste.
Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dumplings and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold.
What can I serve with Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings?
These dumplings pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A warm cup of cider or coffee also complements the flavors beautifully.
Are Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that the crescent roll dough you use is also vegetarian, which most brands are.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of comfort and nostalgia.
Each bite transports me back to family gatherings, where laughter mingled with the sweet aroma of baked apples.
The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.
Sharing these dumplings with loved ones creates moments that linger long after the last bite.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of baking, and let these delightful dumplings bring warmth and happiness to your table!
Cinnamon Sugar Apple Dumplings are a delightful dessert made with fresh apples wrapped in crescent roll dough, baked to perfection and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients
Scale
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and cut into eighths
2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup unsweetened apple juice
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Place one apple slice on the wide end of each triangle and sprinkle with a little cinnamon sugar. Roll the dough around the apple slice, starting from the wide end and rolling to the point. Pinch the edges to seal.
Place the rolled dumplings in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, apple juice, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly over the dumplings in the baking dish.
Sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar over the top of the dumplings.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and bubbly.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
For a caramel twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the dumplings before baking.
Substitute pears or peaches for the apples for a different flavor profile.