Grandma’s Apple Dumplings

These Grandma’s Apple Dumplings are a simple and delicious recipe!  These homemade apple dumplings are easier than you’d think. In this recipe apples wrapped in dough with an orange sauce.

Once baked, These apple dumplings melt in your mouth! Simply delicious!

This recipe includes Granny Smith apples that are peeled and cored, then wrapped in a pastry crust and covered in a buttery orange sauce with a hint of vanilla.

These perfectly portioned individual desserts are so delicious and easy to make that you’ll love them!

Plus, you can really use those extra apples.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why Do I Love Grandma’s Apple Dumplings?

I have memories of my Grandma making her famous apple dumplings all through my childhood. She could whip them up in no time, and they were always lip-smacking good. We almost thought they were store-bought. From weekend granny visits to festive dinners, we had them whenever we could.

Lucky for us, my mom picked up the recipe and passed it down to me. And here I am, ready to share it with you all.

What Types of Apples Should I Use for This Recipe?

You see, the best part about the recipe is that it has stood the test of time – it’s simple, and you can use whatever type of apple you have on hand. I prefer Granny Smith apples because they are tart and sweet. They also hold their shape when cooking, making them ideal for this recipe.

You can also try Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, and Jonagold.

If you have to pick between the two, ALWAYS choose the tougher guy. Gala and Red Delicious are too soft to work with. Trust me. I’ve been there.

How to Cut Apples for Apple Dumplings?

Okay, this is the only part (literally) where you’ll need some technique. You have to peel, core, and slice. The fastest way is to use an apple corer and slicer. But if you don’t have one, just peel the apples with a vegetable peeler, core using a paring knife, and then slice them into beautifully thin slices. It doesn’t have to look picture-perfect. No one’s looking at your slices when the rich, buttery juices are dripping all over them.

How Can I Serve Grandma’s Apple Dumplings?

In my family, we like these little balls of apple gooeyness as it is. They taste so good, even without anything extra. But if you want to get creative, serve them with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a few dollops of whipped cream. They also make a delicious dessert when served drizzled with maple syrup or honey. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• Granny Smith Apples
• Refrigerated Crescent Rolls
• Ground Cinnamon
• Butter
• White Sugar
• Orange Juice
• Vanilla Extract

How to make Grandma’s Apple Dumplings:

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350º F /175º C).

Step 2. Take the rolls out of the can and wrap each apple piece in one crescent roll.

Step 3. Place apples covered with rolls upside down in a baking dish.

Step 4. Sprinkle with cinnamon on top.

Step 5. In a medium saucepan, add butter, orange juice, and sugar.

Combine until butter is completely melted and sugar is dissolved.

Step 6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Step 7. Pour over the apple rolls.

Step 8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until pastry is golden and apples are tender.

Step 9. Spoon sauce over rolls when serving.

Enjoy!

Now, remember to save this recipe on Pinterest for later 🙂

Can I Double This Recipe?

These yummy apple bites know how to attract people. So, the demand can really go up. If it does, double the recipe. Or triple. No one minds yummy extras.

Can I Make These Apple Dumplings Vegan?

Of course, you can! If you have vegan members on the table, don’t stir their FOMO! Just replace your regular butter with vegan butter. And ta-da!

If you want to make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free crescent roll. I haven’t given it a shot yet, but it should work just fine.

How to Store Apple Dumplings?

I have good news for anyone who has leftovers. You can refrigerate the dumplings for a week, and they’ll be good. YES! And if you want a longer life, freeze them for SIX MONTHS! Dancing already?

You know the basics, right? Wrap them in a cling wrap and place them in an airtight container.

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