Arkansas Apple Dumplings
Sweet and gooey Arkansas Apple Dumplings feature tender apple pieces wrapped in cinnamon-spiced crescent rolls, baked with buttery sugar mixture and Mountain Dew for a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the apples and cut each into 8 pieces.
- Roll out the crescent rolls and sprinkle them liberally with cinnamon.
- Wrap each apple piece in a crescent roll and place in a 10x10-inch pan sprayed with Pam.
- Melt the butter and mix it with sugar and vanilla.
- Pour the butter mixture over the assembled apple crescents.
- Pour Mountain Dew over the top of the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar slightly or substitute brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. If you don't have Mountain Dew, a lemon-lime soda can be used as a substitute. Ensure the butter is melted but not too hot to avoid cooking the crescent dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Arkansas Apple Dumplings are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or a slice of Pecan Cake for a satisfying end to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dumplings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will keep the pastry crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arkansas Apple Dumplings contains roughly 513 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that softer apples may cook down more during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings and assemble them in the pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
Can I make this recipe without crescent rolls?
If you prefer a homemade version, you can use a simple pastry dough or even a biscuit dough as a substitute for the crescent rolls. Just roll it out thinly and follow the same wrapping method for the apples.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).