Name: Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and cut into 8 wedges; 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 42 reviews

If you’re searching for a dessert that is effortlessly charming, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion, then this Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender Granny Smith apple wedges wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent roll dough, bathed in a sweet cinnamon-sugar butter sauce, and finished with a splash of lemon-lime soda that adds a subtle sparkle and caramelized glaze. This recipe brings together simplicity and comfort in a way that will have your family and friends asking for seconds (and thirds!).

Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients—each playing a key role to create a harmonious blend of texture and flavor. From the crisp tartness of Granny Smith apples to the richness of butter and gentle warmth of cinnamon, every item is chosen with purpose.

2 large Granny Smith apples: Their tartness contrasts perfectly with the sweet sauce for a balanced bite.
2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: Provides the flaky, buttery exterior that hugs the apples with ease.
1 cup unsalted butter: Melts into a luscious sauce, enriching every bite with creamy goodness.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the sauce, helping to caramelize the dumplings beautifully in the oven.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant depth that complements the cinnamon and apples.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the dish with warmth and seasonal charm.
1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7UP): Creates a light bubbly glaze and keeps the apples tender and juicy during baking.

How to Make Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples and Baking Dish

Start by peeling the Granny Smith apples and cutting each into 8 wedges. The peeling ensures a tender texture while baking, and the wedge size is perfect for wrapping and serving. Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—it will keep your dumplings from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Wrap Apples with Crescent Roll Dough

Take each apple wedge and wrap it carefully in a triangle of crescent roll dough. Be sure to pincho the seams closed and place each wrapped apple seam-side down in your greased dish. This wrap creates a flaky, buttery cradle that’s just begging to be baked to golden perfection.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, stirring until well blended. This sauce is the heart of the recipe, infusing the dumplings with sweet, comforting flavor that bubbles through the dough as it bakes.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce and Lemon-Lime Soda

Pour the butter and sugar mixture evenly over the wrapped apple dumplings. Then carefully pour the lemon-lime soda around the edges of the baking dish, avoiding pouring directly on top of the dumplings to keep their delicate shape intact. This soda adds a slight fizz and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Bake the dumplings in your preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for golden brown tops and tender, fragrant apples inside. The kitchen will fill with the most wonderful aroma, making waiting a joyful task. When they’re ready, allow them to cool slightly so the sauce thickens a bit before serving.

How to Serve Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your dumplings with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a cinnamon dusting adds a pretty finish and a touch of warmth that complements every bite.

Side Dishes

This dessert stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a light cup of tea or a dollop of whipped cream makes it even more special. For a cozy meal, serve it alongside a warm bowl of spiced cider to carry those apple flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging apple dumplings on a rustic wooden board or appetizing white platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves or cinnamon sticks. Serving them family-style in the baking dish can also create a heartwarming, welcoming vibe—perfect for sharing the love of this Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover apple dumplings keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The buttery, syrupy sauce will thicken but stay delicious; simply warm them gently before enjoying again.

Freezing

You can freeze individual dumplings before baking by wrapping each apple wedge with crescent dough, placing them in a freezer-safe container, and freezing for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the sauce and baking step as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, so the crescent roll regains its crispness, and the sauce becomes bubbly and warm once again. Avoid the microwave, which can make the dough soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer the perfect balance of tartness and firmness, you can substitute other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just make sure they hold up well to baking to avoid overly mushy dumplings.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and check your crescent roll dough for dairy content or find a vegan alternative. The recipe will still be delicious with these substitutions.

Is lemon-lime soda necessary?

The lemon-lime soda adds a lovely lightness and helps the sauce caramelize. If you prefer, you can substitute it with sparkling water and a tablespoon of lemon juice, though the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crescent roll dough if available. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for gluten sensitivities.

What’s the best way to serve leftover dumplings?

Warm them gently in the oven until heated through and crisp on the outside. Pairing with ice cream or whipped cream refreshes the dessert, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

Final Thoughts

This Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings Recipe is one of those sweet discoveries that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick to assemble, wonderfully comforting, and perfectly balances flaky dough with juicy, spiced apples. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, it’s a delicious reminder that simple ingredients and a little love can create magic. I truly encourage you to dive in and make this delightful dessert—it just might become a cherished staple in your kitchen too!