There’s something truly comforting about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s paired with tender apples wrapped in soft, gooey dough. That’s precisely the joy encapsulated in these Easy Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups! I discovered this delightful recipe during a cozy fall afternoon, craving a sweet treat that didn’t require hours in the kitchen.
These roll-ups are not only quick to prepare, but they also evoke a sense of nostalgia, making them perfect for family gatherings or a simple dessert after dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; whether you stick to the classic version or opt for a gluten-free adaptation, each bite offers a burst of warm, spiced apple goodness. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making something that will fill your home with warmth and sweet memories!
Why Are Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups So Irresistible?
Comforting aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and apples fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Quick to make: These roll-ups are perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep but delivering maximum flavor.
Versatile delight: Swap apples for pears or nuts to cater to different tastes, making this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Nostalgic treat: Each bite takes you back to cherished family gatherings, effortlessly evoking sweet memories.
Crowd pleaser: Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, and watch them disappear in seconds at gatherings!
Easy clean-up: With just one baking dish, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your delightful creation.
Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for creating the dough; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour mix.
• Baking Powder – Helps the dough rise; replaceable with baking soda in a pinch.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; can be omitted if on a sodium-restricted diet.
• Butter – Adds richness; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Milk (2%) – Provides moisture; if dairy-free, use almond or oat milk.
For the Filling
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a caramel flavor; white sugar can be used but may alter the flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm spice notes; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Chopped Apples – Fresh apples are recommended for flavor and texture; canned can be used in a pinch.
For the Sauce
• Sugar (for sauce) – Sweetness; can be reduced or substituted with a sweetener for lower-sugar options.
• Water – Liquid base for the sauce; no substitutions necessary.
• Flour (for sauce) – Thickening agent; cornstarch can be an alternative if needed.
• Butter (for sauce) – Adds richness and can be omitted for a lighter sauce; using a plant-based alternative works well.
Indulge in these Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups and enjoy the delightful aromas and flavors they bring to your home!
How to Make Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups
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Prepare Dough: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then add milk and mix until just moistened. The dough will be soft and sticky.
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Roll Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Evenly sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon, leaving a 1-inch border, and then layer on the chopped apples for a sweet filling.
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Shape Roll-Ups: Carefully roll the dough jelly-roll style from one long side, sealing the edge as you go. Cut into 12 slices and place them cut-side down in a greased 13×9-inch baking pan.
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Make Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the sauce ingredients—sugar, water, flour, butter, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil while whisking constantly, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely.
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Bake: Pour the sauce over the roll-ups. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let them stand for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Optional: Serve these roll-ups warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to make these delightful roll-ups your own and ignite your creativity in the kitchen!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix for a suitable option without compromising flavor. Just be sure to check the texture as you go!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and switch butter for coconut oil or margarine to cater to dairy-free diets.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples.
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Spiced Up: Enhance the warmth by incorporating a touch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon—this will elevate the flavor profile!
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Fruit Swap: Try replacing apples with pears or even peaches during their peak season for a fresh twist on this classic recipe.
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Lower Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free sweetener in both the filling and sauce for a lighter dessert that’s still satisfying.
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top for an extra sweet crust that’s simply irresistible.
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Jam-Filled: Spread a thin layer of your favorite fruit jam over the dough before adding apples for an added layer of sweetness and flavor explosion.
Tailor these suggestions to match your family’s preferences and watch your creation become a beloved staple in your home!
Expert Tips for Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups
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Flour the Surface: Make sure to flour your rolling surface generously to prevent the sticky dough from sticking and tearing while you roll it out.
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Watch the Baking: Every oven is unique! Keep an eye on the baking progress, looking for a beautiful golden color and bubbling sauce as signs that they’re done.
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Adjust Gluten-Free: If using gluten-free flour, note that the dough’s texture may differ. You might need to tweak the liquid to get a perfect consistency in your Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups.
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Check Apple Freshness: For optimal flavor, always use fresh apples instead of canned. Fresh apples keep their texture and provide a much nicer taste.
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Storage Tips: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a delightful treat any time!
Storage Tips for Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped roll-ups in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the roll-ups warm, microwave them on medium power for 15-20 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Avoid Moisture: If freezing, ensure the roll-ups are completely cooled before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup, which may affect the quality of your Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups are a fantastic choice for meal prep that saves you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1-3 of the recipe, then cover the assembled roll-ups with plastic wrap and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. To maintain their quality, ensure the roll-ups are well-sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven, pour the sauce over, and bake as specified. This way, you’ll relish the same delicious taste with minimal effort on the day you serve them!
What to Serve with Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups?
These delightful roll-ups are a treat on their own, but pairing them with a few delicious sides can elevate your dessert experience!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully with the warm roll-ups, creating a comforting dessert bowl.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich flavors of cinnamon and apple.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over the roll-ups enhances their sweetness, turning them into an indulgent dessert masterpiece.
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Chopped Nuts: Toss some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the softness of the roll-ups.
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Hot Tea or Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite tea or coffee lends a cozy vibe, making each bite of apple goodness even more delightful.
Pair these suggestions alongside your Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups to craft an unforgettable dessert experience!
Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for my Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! When selecting apples, go for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—they hold their shape beautifully when baked and offer a delightful balance of sweetness. Avoid apples with dark spots or soft patches, as these could lead to mushy filling.
How should I store leftovers after making Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups?
Very simple! Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh, ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them up. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for the best taste.
Can I freeze my Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your roll-ups, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they’ll last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What do I do if my dough is too sticky while making roll-ups?
Don’t worry—sticky dough is quite common! If you find your dough overly sticky, simply dust your work surface with a bit more flour as you roll it out. Also, you can lightly flour your hands to prevent it from clinging. If you find it hard to manage, you can chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Are Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups a safe dessert for pets?
Generally, it’s best to avoid giving these roll-ups to your pets. The sugar and cinnamon, especially in larger amounts, can upset their stomachs, and the dough may not be safe for them either. As a rule of thumb, stick to pet-friendly treats!
Can I adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! When converting to gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary, so you might need to adjust the milk slightly to achieve the best results. Plus, I recommend adding a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help with binding if your flour blend doesn’t include it.
Mouthwatering Apple Dumpling Roll-Ups You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then add milk and mix until just moistened. The dough will be soft and sticky.
- Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into an 18x12-inch rectangle. Evenly sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon, leaving a 1-inch border, and then layer on the chopped apples for a sweet filling.
- Carefully roll the dough jelly-roll style from one long side, sealing the edge as you go. Cut into 12 slices and place them cut-side down in a greased 13x9-inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, combine the sauce ingredients—sugar, water, flour, butter, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil while whisking constantly, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely.
- Pour the sauce over the roll-ups. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let them stand for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
