Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

Ready for a cozy fall dessert that combines the juicy sweetness of apples with the warm comfort of golden pastry? Look no further than Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings! These little bundles of joy bring together tender, spiced apples wrapped in flaky dough, baked with buttery sweetness, and finished with a surprising twist of soda for the perfect texture.

If you’ve been looking for a dessert that feels a little fancy but is simple enough for a busy weeknight, this is it. Fun fact: apple dumplings date back to early European settlers, making them as nostalgic as they are delicious. What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity—you don’t need to be a pro baker to pull it off, yet the result will taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

If you enjoy sweet treats like gooey chocolate chip cookies, you’ll find just as much joy in these apple dumplings. So, let’s tie on those aprons and bake a dessert the whole family will love!

What Are Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings?

The name might sound a little quirky, but apple dumplings are exactly what they promise: apples wrapped in tender dough, baked to perfection, and infused with buttery cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Imagine capturing the very essence of autumn in a warm, golden parcel—that’s what these dumplings deliver. Around family dinners, they tend to vanish quicker than you can say “dessert.” One bite, and you’ll understand why they’ve become such a beloved classic.

Why You’ll Love Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

Here are three irresistible reasons to give this recipe a try:

1. Unbeatable flavor – Tart, juicy apples wrapped in buttery crescent dough and baked until golden brown.

2. Budget-friendly and easy – Simple ingredients, big payoff. A homemade dessert that beats store-bought every time.

3. Perfectly customizable – Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch.

If you love pairing warm desserts with a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream, these dumplings are about to become your new favorite.

How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

Quick Overview

This recipe is delightfully quick—just 40 minutes from start to finish! With fresh apples and a few pantry staples, you’ll have a warm, aromatic dessert that feels special without requiring hours of work.

Key Ingredients

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)

• 1 can crescent roll dough

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)

• 1 cup Mountain Dew (or any lemon-lime soda)

• 1 tsp cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the apples: peel, core, and cut each into quarters.

3. Wrap each apple quarter in a triangle of crescent roll dough, pinching edges to seal.

4. Place the dumplings in a greased baking dish.

5. Melt the butter and stir in sugar and cinnamon.

6. Pour the mixture evenly over the dumplings.

7. Slowly pour the soda around the edges of the dish (not directly on top).

8. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbling.

9. Serve warm, with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

What to Serve With Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream (classic pairing).

• Freshly whipped cream for a lighter touch.

• A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

• Warm spiced apple cider or a cup of tea to complement the flavors.

Top Tips for Perfect Dumplings

• Pick the right apples: tart varieties like Granny Smith balance the sweetness perfectly.

• Seal the dough tightly: this keeps the juices inside for tender, flavorful dumplings.

• Customize flavors: add nutmeg, cloves, or even raisins for a twist.

• Watch your oven: every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on the dumplings during the last few minutes.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 2–3 months (wrapped tightly).

• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through for that “freshly baked” taste.

There you have it—Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings: a dessert that’s as easy as it is impressive. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, these dumplings will become a fall favorite in no time.

Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

A simple yet irresistible dessert made with crescent rolls, fresh apples, butter, sugar, and a surprising splash of soda for a caramelized, golden finish. These apple dumplings are cozy, sweet, and perfect for sharing.

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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large Granny Smith apples peeled and cut into 8 wedges each
• 2 cans 8 oz each refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 can 12 oz lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7-Up)

Equipment

• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Wrap each apple wedge in a crescent roll triangle and place seam side down in the prepared dish.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until combined (mixture will be grainy).
4. Pour butter mixture evenly over the apple dumplings.
5. Carefully pour the soda around (not over) the dumplings in the pan.
6. Bake 35–40 minutes, until dumplings are golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Use Granny Smith apples for tartness, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter version.

The soda creates a syrupy sauce—don’t skip it!

Best eaten the same day, but can be reheated in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.