Classic Fried Apple Pie Egg Rolls

The combination of “apple pie egg rolls” is a fantastic and delicious idea. It’s a creative fusion dessert that takes the classic flavors of apple pie and wraps them in a crispy, fried egg roll wrapper.

Here’s a complete guide, from a simple recipe to tips and serving suggestions.

Table of Contents

The Basic Concept

You’re essentially making a quick apple pie filling, wrapping it in egg roll or spring roll wrappers, and then frying (or baking/air frying) them until golden and crispy. It’s easier than making a whole pie and perfect for parties.

Classic Fried Apple Pie Egg Rolls Recipe

This recipe makes about 10-12 egg rolls.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

2-3 large apples (Granny Smith for tartness, Fuji or Honeycrisp for sweetness), peeled, cored, and finely diced
2 tbsp unsalted butter

3 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg

Pinch of salt
1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken the juices)

Other Ingredients:

10-12 egg roll wrappers (found in the refrigerated produce section)

Water (for sealing the wrappers)
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying

Instructions:

Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are just starting to soften but still have a bit of a bite.

Thicken the Filling: Add the lemon juice. Push the apples to one side and pour the cornstarch slurry into the liquid in the pan. Stir quickly—it will thicken almost immediately. Mix everything together and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely. (A warm filling will make the wrappers soggy and difficult to seal.)
Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling.
- Fold the two side corners inward toward the center.
- Brush the remaining top corner with a little water.
- Roll it up tightly, sealing the top corner. Press firmly to ensure it’s sealed. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Fry: In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, heat about 1.5 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place 2-3 egg rolls into the hot oil, seam-side down. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve: Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this keeps them crispy). Let them cool for a few minutes before serving—the filling will be extremely hot.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place assembled egg rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Lightly spray or brush the egg rolls with oil. Cook in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Pro Tips & Flavor Ideas:

Keep Wrappers Covered: While assembling, keep the stack of unused egg roll wrappers under a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
Add-Ins for the Filling:
- Raisins or Dried Cranberries: For a chewy texture.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add great crunch.
- A Dash of Bourbon or Rum: Add it with the lemon juice for a deep, adult flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Place a small cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center with the apples for a sweet and savory twist.

Sealing is Key: Make sure you seal the egg roll properly to prevent filling from leaking into the oil.
Don’t Overfill: This is the most common mistake. Overfilling makes them hard to seal and more likely to burst.

Serving Suggestions:

Dipping Sauces: This is mandatory!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic “à la mode” pairing. The hot and cold contrast is perfect.
- Caramel Sauce: The number one choice for many.
- Whipped Cream or Cinnamon Cream Cheese Dip.
- Vanilla Custard or Dulce de Leche.
Topping: Dust them with powdered sugar or a mix of cinnamon and sugar right after they come out of the fryer.

Enjoy your delicious and inventive dessert