Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings

Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings �🍏

(Ree Drummond’s Famous, Buttery, Easy Dessert!)

This iconic recipe from The Pioneer Woman is a game-changer—tender apples wrapped in flaky pastry, baked in a sweet, citrusy syrup, and best served warm with vanilla ice cream. It’s simple, decadent, and unforgettable!

Ingredients *(Serves 6-8)*

For the Dumplings:

• 2 Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and cut into 8 wedges)

• 2 tubes (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 (12 oz) can Mountain Dew or Sprite (yes, really!)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Peel, core, and slice each apple into 8 wedges.

2. Wrap the Apples:

   • Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles.

   • Place 1 apple wedge on each wide end of the dough, then roll up tightly.

   • Arrange in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Make the Syrup:

   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Stir in sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon (and nutmeg if using). Do not boil—just melt together.

   • Pour syrup over the dumplings.

4. The Secret Ingredient:

   • Slowly pour Mountain Dew/Sprite around the edges of the pan (not over the top).

5. Bake:

   • Bake 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.

   • Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving (syrup will thicken slightly).

Why This Recipe Works

• The Soda Magic: The citrusy soda keeps the dumplings moist and adds a slight tangy sweetness.

• Buttery Crispness: The syrup caramelizes into a sticky, crispy glaze.

• Easy Shortcut: Crescent dough makes this foolproof—no pastry skills needed!

Serving Suggestions

🍦 A la Mode: Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
☕ Coffee Pairing: Perfect with a hot cup of coffee for contrast.
🌰 Crunch Boost: Sprinkle toasted pecans on top.

Fun Fact: Ree Drummond’s version went viral for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing magic!

Would you try the soda trick, or stick to classic syrup? 😉