Caramel Apple Dumplings

Caramel Apple Dumplings are a warm, gooey, and irresistible dessert that wraps tender apples in buttery pastry, then bathes them in a rich caramel sauce as they bake. This cozy classic is perfect for fall but delicious any time of year. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream, these dumplings are pure comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Combines the flavors of apple pie and caramel sauce
• Great for entertaining or holiday dinners
• Uses store-bought dough for quick prep
• Bakes in one dish for easy cleanup
• Comforting and nostalgic flavor
• Perfect balance of sweet and tart
• Great served warm with ice cream
• A hit with kids and adults alike
• Can be made ahead and reheated

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp preferred)
• Refrigerated crescent roll dough or pie crust
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla extract
• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Lemon juice
• Water or apple cider
• Optional: chopped nuts for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into quarters. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Wrap each apple slice in a piece of crescent roll dough or pie crust and place seam-side down in the prepared dish.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and water or apple cider. Cook until smooth and just starting to bubble.
5. Pour the warm caramel-like sauce evenly over the dumplings in the dish.
6. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce if using.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 dumplings. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and bake time is 35–40 minutes, for a total time of about 55 minutes.

Variations

• Use puff pastry for a flakier texture
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
• Sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for sweet-salty contrast
• Use apple pie spice instead of just cinnamon
• Substitute pears for apples for a twist
• Make mini versions using apple slices and smaller dough squares
• Add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for depth
• Use orange juice instead of water for a citrus note
• Add raisins or dried cranberries inside the dumplings
• Use maple syrup in the sauce for fall flavor

storage/reheating

Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds. For freezing, wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What apples are best for dumplings?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving.

Can I use homemade dough?

Absolutely. Pie crust or biscuit dough both work well if made from scratch.

Is the sauce supposed to be runny before baking?

Yes, it thickens as it bakes and caramelizes around the dumplings.

Can I make these without caramel sauce?

Yes, the butter-sugar sauce forms its own caramel, but a drizzle of caramel adds extra richness.

What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?

Use pie crust, biscuit dough, or even puff pastry.

Do I need to peel the apples?

It’s recommended for the best texture, but you can leave the skin on if preferred.

Can I freeze baked dumplings?

Yes, they freeze well. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with these?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar works perfectly.

Are these very sweet?

They are rich and sweet, but the tart apples and spices help balance the flavor.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dumplings are the ultimate comfort dessert—easy to make, loaded with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a family dinner, a holiday party, or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers a warm and gooey treat that feels like a hug in every bite. Serve them warm, top with ice cream, and watch them disappear.

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